England Captain Ben Stokes Suffers Groin Injury in Ashes Final Test
England captain Ben Stokes experienced a concerning setback during the final Ashes Test against Australia. On day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Stokes limped off the field due to a groin injury, casting doubt on his future involvement in the match. This occurred just after he bowled ten deliveries before Jacob Bethell finished the over.
Details of the Injury
Following Stokes’ departure, a team spokesperson confirmed that he was suffering from a right adductor issue. A statement released indicated that he was undergoing assessment, with updates to follow as more information becomes available.
Impact on the Team
Stokes has been a crucial player for England throughout the challenging Ashes series, having bowled a total of 101.1 overs. Unfortunately, he is now the fourth English seamer to face injury this series. Other players affected include:
- Mark Wood – knee injury, returned home after one Test
- Jofra Archer – side injury, participated in three Tests
- Gus Atkinson – hamstring injury, left before the final Test
This succession of injuries underscores the struggles faced by the England team in maintaining a consistent bowling lineup during the Ashes series.
Stokes’ Recent Performance and Future Plans
Throughout his career, Stokes has battled various injuries, including knee, hamstring, and shoulder issues. These have often limited his participation in prior Test series leading up to the Ashes. Despite these challenges, he recently signed a new central contract with England, ensuring his commitment until the end of the home Ashes in 2027.
Following the confirmation of England’s series defeat, Stokes expressed his desire to continue as captain, reaffirming his dedication to the team.
Ashes Series Overview
The ongoing Ashes series has seen Australia leading the five-match contest with a scoreline of 3-1. Looking forward, the next Ashes series in Australia is scheduled for the 2025-26 season.
