Ashes 2024: Stokes fatigued but ready to bowl in Adelaide

England captain Ben Stokes is exhausted but remains available to bowl after a demanding start to the Ashes at the Adelaide Oval. He battled through long innings and fielding as England seeks a late comeback.

Adelaide pressure and Stokes’s status

Australia moved into a strong position in the second innings, reaching 271-4 to lead by 356 at the Adelaide Oval, putting England under pressure to force a result.

Stokes's lengthy innings and injuries

Stokes spent almost five hours at the crease across the first two days, making 83 off 198 balls in England's first innings. He was struck on the helmet by a Mitchell Starc delivery, endured cramps, and later collided with the turf while attempting a sharp stop.

Assistant coach Jeetan Patel said Stokes looked tired but remains ready to bowl if he can deliver at full pace.

England's bowling plan

With Stokes not bowling on Friday, England rotated five other bowlers as Australia extended its lead. The decision drew attention given England’s need to claw their way back into the series.

Series context

England trailed by 85 after Australia’s first innings, and Travis Head's unbeaten 142 helped push the lead beyond reach. England bowled 66 overs on the day but did not use Stokes.

Former players noted that a captain who usually contributes with the ball may limit his involvement when risking injury.

Expert view

Jeetan Patel noted that Stokes always gives 100 percent; if he cannot maintain that level, he will not bowl. The decision on bowling will depend on his condition and risk assessment.

Outlook

Three Tests in, England have shown moments but the path ahead remains tough. A late fightback in Adelaide would require something special to extend the series to a fifth day.

Patel added that England still needs a moment of magic to flip the script.

Key insight: Stokes’s fitness and willingness to bowl are crucial for England’s chances of a late Ashes revival in Adelaide. BBC report

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