Ben Stokes said his team will continue their aggressive and results-driven approach against Australia. Credit: PA/Mike Edgerton
England captain Ben Stokes ordered Ashes ground staff to deliver «smooth, fast». fields to help their team beat Australia this summer.
Under the leadership of Stokes and Brandon McCallum, England adopted an attacking 'Bazball' philosophies and now want home conditions that will fit their style.
Stokes also admitted that he has in mind the starting lineup for the first Test at Edgbaston, which will likely include a 90 mph bowler. hour.
However, there are fears that Jofra Archer, one of the few real fast bowlers, along with Mark Wood and Ollie Stone, have suffered injury losses after missing back-to-back games in the Indian Premier League.
“I guess I I know what the starting XI will be, there or there,» Stokes told Sky Sports. “Having the ability to play at over 90 mph is something every captain wants. [But] when it comes to that first test, I'll make sure I pick the best team for that first game.
“We had a clear agreement with the ground staff on what type of gate we needed, and they were responsive. We need flat, fast gates. We want to score fast. If it attracts the guys from Australia, they will be happy. I'm smiling because I'm looking forward to it"
Stokes' Fitness was a major issue after he ended a New Zealand tour in February due to severe knee pain.
However, the all-rounder was in good enough shape to play from the start of the IPL, and even opened bowling in the second match, despite assurances that he would initially be used solely as a batsman.
Stokes clearly struggled with his left knee during England's tour of New Zealand. Photo: Getty Images/Philip Brown
The 31-year-old's bowling is critical to England's balance sheet, especially since Australia boasts their own all-around bowler Cameron Green who will be vital to their hopes of winning away from home. .
«Medicine and the gym, plus cortisone injections — everything is going well,» Stokes said. «But I'm not going to rush, the main priority is to make sure that I can fulfill my role as the fourth rider in the Ashes.»
Stokes has made it clear that he is not afraid that Australia will try to go toe to toe with his side .
Travis Head, in particular, excelled with an attacking game plan dating back to the last Ashes series in England in 2019.
'I'm not going to change anything'
«[Head] It's allowed to play this way , that's why he's been successful,» Stokes said. “He had such a hard time playing the last Ashes, he hit back and it was hard for him to set up pitches. We are ready for that and also for the runs, which was easier as we played more.
“Jimmy [Anderson] and [Stewart] Broad were so protective of their savings figures, but now they see the other side of it. Having these two with a 'good to go for a run' mentality is something that will do us good if Australia comes back to us as Travis Head likes to do.»
Stokes also confirmed that he would be playing for winning the final Trial of Ashes, even if a draw is all it takes to get the urn.
"I'm not going to change anything just because we're in Ashes," Stokes said. "Each game will bring results. [If not, then] I am not true to myself and everything that I have done over the past year.”
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