England captain Ben Stokes has called on his team to “create history” by winning the Ashes in Australia, a feat achieved by only five England sides since World War II. With the first Test set to begin on Friday at Perth Stadium, Stokes believes this team has a genuine chance of securing a rare away Ashes triumph.

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England’s Challenge in Australia

England have not won an Ashes series in Australia since the 2010-11 campaign, which also marked their last Test victory on Australian soil. The touring side has endured heavy defeats in previous series, including a 4-0 loss in 2017-18, surrendering the urn to Australia.

“A lot has been spoken about history and how it has gone for England,” Stokes said. “This is our chance to create our own history and it is up to us how that looks.”

Since taking charge in 2022 alongside coach Brendon McCullum, Stokes has rejuvenated England’s Test side, building a team capable of competing against the world’s best in tough away conditions.

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Stokes’ Personal Ashes Legacy

Stokes has already created iconic Ashes moments, most notably his unbeaten 135 to win the 2019 Headingley Test, and his role in England’s 2019 50-over World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup victories cements his place in cricketing history.

If he leads England to an Ashes series win in Australia, Stokes would join an elite group of post-war captains to achieve the feat, further solidifying his legacy as one of England’s greatest cricketers.

“I know this is a series that probably gets highlighted above all the other series I’ve been a captain in,” he said.

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England’s Fast-Bowling Arsenal

England could field an unprecedented five-man pace attack, with Stokes, Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse capable of reaching speeds of 90mph. The fast-bowling battery reflects long-term planning to arrive in Australia with the pace required for success.

“If we went back two years before we picked the squad, and that’s what we had available, we would have bitten your hand off,” Stokes said.

The all-rounder has fully recovered from a shoulder injury that kept him out of England’s previous Test series against India, and his fitness will be crucial for both batting and bowling contributions.

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Venue and Opposition Considerations

The first Test will be played at Perth Stadium, hosting an Ashes Test for the first time. Historically, Perth has been a hostile venue for touring sides, with England having only one win in 14 matches, dating back to 1978. Previous matches were held at the WACA, known for its fast and bouncy pitch.

Australia will be missing key players due to injury, including captain Pat Cummins and pace bowler Josh Hazlewood, while new faces Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett are expected to make their Test debuts.

“This game won’t be taken more easily than it would normally if they were able to field what everyone would think would be their strongest XI,” Stokes added.

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Stokes’ Commitment to England

Stokes recently signed a two-year contract extension, confirming his intention to play in the next home Ashes series in 2027, prioritizing national duty over lucrative franchise cricket.

“Very easy. I want to eke everything out of this body I can and I will do that in an England shirt,” he said.

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Key Takeaways

• England captain Ben Stokes urges his team to “create history” in the Ashes.
• The first Test begins on Friday at Perth Stadium, marking its debut as an Ashes venue.
• England could deploy a five-man pace attack including Stokes, Archer, and Wood.
• Australia will miss key players, including captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
• Stokes has a chance to cement his legacy as one of England’s greatest cricketers with an away Ashes win.