captain of england ben stokes He opened up about the emotional impact of another Ashes defeat in Australia and admitted the team’s long-held ambition of winning the title away from home has ended. The third test in Adelaide endedHowever, despite Australia leading 3–0, Stokes insisted that England would continue to fight hard in the final two matches of the series,
England captain expresses pain of another Ashes defeat in Australia
After Australia’s victory at the Adelaide Oval, which retained the Ashes with two Tests remaining, Stokes reflected on the reality of the defeat “Hurts and sucks,” Especially considering the expectations related to this tour of England.
talking to Isa Guha After the defeat, Stokes admitted that England had come to Australia with a clear objective – to become one of the few touring teams to win an Ashes series. He acknowledged that that ambition is now gone.
“We’ve come out here with one goal in mind,” Stokes said that the dream of lifting the urn in Australia “It’s over now.” This is how he described the atmosphere in the dressing room “Painful and quite emotional,” Reflects the weight of yet another failed expedition on Australian soil.
Stokes candidly admitted that Australia have been better in the opening three Tests, showcasing their skills with more consistency in all departments – batting, bowling and fielding.
Another serious milestone for England in Australia
The Adelaide defeat extended England’s winning streak in Australia to 18 Tests, dating back to their famous victory in the 2010–11 Ashes series. Stokes admitted the figures were difficult to digest, especially considering this year’s losses.
He said losing the series in just 11 days of cricket made the result even more painful, underlining how decisively Australia had regained control. According to the England captain, his team repeatedly faltered at crucial moments, allowing the pressure to overwhelm them while Australia remained ruthless.
Stokes revealed that he had warned his team early in the series about the importance of handling pressure in Australia – a challenge which England ultimately failed to meet.
Missed chances and moments of pressure prove costly for England
Reflecting on the first three Test matches, Stokes points to a pattern for England “Folding” When the game was in balance. Be it a batting collapse or missed chances with the ball, England were unable to maintain momentum, allowing Australia to take advantage decisively.
Conversely, Australia’s ability to strike at crucial junctures proved the difference, turning competitive situations into match-defining passages.
Also read: Fans cheer as Australia retain the Ashes with 3-0 lead at Adelaide Oval
Stokes urged the team to show flexibility in the final Test
Despite the insurmountable deficit, Stokes was adamant that England would not win the series casually. He insisted that the team would not do this “Just stop and let this series run,” swore that England would give “Absolutely everything” In the remaining two tests.
With memories of the 5-0 defeat in previous tours still fresh, Stokes stressed the importance of pride and resistance. He challenged his players to show “A little dog,” Using Adelaide’s injury as motivation to be tougher and more consistent.
As the 2025-26 Ashes series progresses, England’s aim is no longer to reclaim the urn but to restore confidence and competitiveness.
See also: Nathan Lyon’s deadly spin sent Harry Brook to the pavilion on the fourth day of the Adelaide Test.
