'I think I know where the starting XI will be' - Ben Stokes kicks off Ashes mind games as mother of all rivalries gains momentum

Following a terrific season of Test cricket, England are all set to host their arch-rivals, Australia for a five-match Test series, starting June 16 at Edgbaston. Notably, the last time England won the prestigious Ashes was in 2015 in their own backyard and thus, would be gunning to finally bring the urn back home. 

Under the able leadership of Ben Stokes, the Three Lions have played some brilliant cricket and changed the complexion of Test cricket overall. Thus, they will be confident ahead of the marquee series.

Meanwhile, Stokes has also revealed that he has the starting XI for the first Test in his mind. The all-rounder also spoke on the luxury of having many quality players around him. The 31-year-old stated that he would have picked a 20-member squad if given a chance since there are a lot of good players available for selection at the moment.

“I could have picked a 20-member squad if I really wanted to. I have already said that with our bowling group, I have asked our medical team to give us the best opportunity to have eight bowlers to select from every game. I think this year’s Ashes in particular is sort of close together compared to other games. 

“Being able to have those resources available in every game is something I’m really keen to have, in terms of you know, could pick a 20-man squad because that’s how fortunate we are at the moment to be able to pick from this group of English players who are so good at the moment. But I think I know where the starting XI will be, there or thereabouts,” Stokes said while speaking to Sky Sports.

Hopefully, Jonny Bairstow is using the time well to get himself fit: Stokes

Jonny Bairstow was one of the biggest reasons behind England’s resurgence in Test cricket in 2022. He had the freedom to play his natural game and that helped the Ben Stokes-led side stamp their authority in the longest format of the game.

However, the stumper-batter injured himself while playing golf and missed the T20 World Cup 2022, and the bilateral series against Australia, Pakistan and Bangladesh series and IPL 2023 among many other things.

However, he is expected to make his return in the upcoming Ashes. Skipper Stokes wants Bairstow to use his time well and recover quickly in order to remain in England’s scheme of things ahead of the marquee series.

“He had a horrific injury what he sustained. For a guy, who was at the high of his game and towards the end of the summer for that to happen to him was incredibly unfortunate and we have quite a long time before we go. Hopefully, he is using the time well to get himself fit,” Stokes added.