England’s Test team’s Skipper, Ben Stokes, has criticized the Australian media for incorrectly explaining what he said in a recent Ashes documentary made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). In the documentary, Stokes is shown cheering up his team after a rain-caused draw in the fourth Test of the 2023 Ashes series at Old Trafford, Manchester.
England was in a strong position to tie the series, as Australia was behind by 61 runs with five wickets left in the second innings of the fourth Test. But, because the rain made the game end in a draw, Australia kept the trophy since they have had it since 2017.
So, after a tough tie, Stokes wanted to cheer up his team. He told them they were a special sports team that people would always remember. He also mentioned that fans were fortunate to see them play, and their accomplishments were much greater than any Ashes Trophy could show.
“We’ve become a sports team that people will always remember, especially those who were lucky enough to watch us play cricket. Our achievements go beyond any Ashes trophy – we’re the team everyone will always remember,” Stokes said in a video made by the England and Wales Cricket Board called ‘Ashes 2023 | Our Take’.
However, his remarks were misunderstood by Australian media, who portrayed them as Stokes praising himself. Yet, the English captain swiftly addressed the situation with a prompt response.
“I said this to the team who had been watching the rain for 2 days while we had the upper hand, just trying to lift their spirits honestly, but anyway, it’s all good and free of charge,” Stokes wrote in a reply on his Twitter account.
In the meantime, England is set to play against the West Indies in a series of three Test matches starting on July 10. The first match at Lord’s will also mark the final game for the renowned fast bowler James Anderson.
