Stokes Knackered but Fit to Bowl in Ashes Duel at Adelaide
England captain Ben Stokes is exhausted but declared fit to bowl as Australia push ahead at Adelaide Oval, leaving England fighting to stay alive in the Ashes series.
Ben Stokes has endured a long day in the field but remains ready to bowl as England's Ashes campaign heads into a decisive phase in Adelaide.
Australia moved into a strong position in their second innings, reaching 271 for 4 and taking a lead of 356 runs at the Adelaide Oval.
Stokes batted for more than five hours across England's first innings, compiling 83 off 198 balls while battling cramps and a head knock from a Mitchell Starc delivery. He also spent time off the field after an awkward moment on the outfield turf.
Assistant coach Jeetan Patel said Stokes is tired but fit to bowl, noting that the captain often pushes himself to the limit and would bowl only if he can do so at full pace and effort.
Stokes's injury history adds to the intrigue around his involvement. England named five bowlers on day three, and the absence of the captain from the attack drew attention as they sought to limit Australia’s advantage late in the day.
England trailed by 85 on first innings and faced a challenging path to saving the series. Australia continued to press, with Travis Head scoring an unbeaten 142 to help his side extend their lead.
England delivered 66 overs but did not see Stokes take the ball. Patel suggested the decision was a cautious one, reflecting the captain's habit of avoiding bowling when not fully confident he can perform at 100 percent.
The Ashes face a rapid conclusion if Australia win in Adelaide, with the urn potentially decided in as few as ten days. If England are to stay alive, they would need an extraordinary performance to stretch the match into a fifth day and achieve a difficult chase at the ground.
Patel urged belief, saying England still has a chance and that a sudden burst of play could turn the series around.
Expert comment
Former New Zealand fast bowler Jeetan Patel emphasizes that Stokes plays with total commitment, and his current approach blends duty with cautious management. The decision not to bowl on a given day could influence how England uses their captain in the coming Tests.
Short summary
England remain under pressure as Australia press for a quick win in Adelaide. Stokes is exhausted but cleared to bowl, and England will need a rare moment of magic to turn the tide. The result hinges on a blend of stubborn defense and bold leadership from Stokes in the remaining days of the Ashes.
Key insight: Stokes’s willingness to push through fatigue demonstrates England's resolve, but his current exhaustion will shape how much he bowls and could determine how far England can push in Adelaide. BBC Sport
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