England captain Ben Stokes Speaking candidly about the emotional impact of yet another Ashes defeat in Australia, he admitted the team’s long-held ambition was to win the urn away from home. It ended after the third Test in Adelaide. However, despite Australia’s 3-0 lead, Stokes insists England will put up a strong fight in the final two matches of the series.
The England captain reflects on the pain of another Ashes defeat in Australia
After Australia’s victory at the Adelaide Oval, Stokes, who sealed the Ashes’ retention with two Tests, spoke of the reality of defeat. “hurts and sucks” especially given the hopes England have for the tour.
talking to The cave after the defeat, Stokes admitted that England had come to Australia with a clear objective – to be one of the few touring sides to win the Ashes series Down Under. That ambition is now gone, he admitted.
“We came here with a purpose” Stokes added that he dreams of lifting the urn in Australia “it’s over now.” This is how he described the atmosphere of the dressing room “Harrowing and quite emotional” Reflecting the weight of another failed campaign on Australian soil.
Stokes admitted openly that Australia were simply better in the first three Tests, executing their skills more consistently in all departments – batting, bowling and fielding.
Another terrible phase for England in Australia
The Adelaide defeat extended England’s winless streak in Australia to 18 Tests, dating back to their famous triumph in the 2010–11 Ashes series. Stokes admitted the statistics were difficult to digest, especially given the pattern of losses this year.
He highlighted how Australia had resolutely taken control, noting that losing the series in just 11 days of cricket made the result all the more poignant. According to the England captain, his side repeatedly faltered at crucial moments and let the pressure get to them while Australia remained relentless.
Stokes revealed that he warned his team at the start of the series about the importance of handling Australia’s pressure – a challenge England ultimately failed to respond to.
Missed chances and moments of pressure cost England dearly
Reflecting on the first three Tests, Stokes pointed to England’s example “folding” when the game is in the balance. Whether it was the collapse of the batting or the missed opportunities with the ball, England were unable to sustain their momentum and allowed Australia to capitalize decisively.
In contrast, Australia’s ability to strike at critical moments proved the difference, turning competitive situations into match-defining transitions.
Also READ: Fans go wild as Australia retain a 3-0 Ashes lead at Adelaide Oval.
Stokes urges team to show resilience in final Tests
Despite the unusual deficit, Stokes believed that England would not just see the series out. He insisted the team would not “Just lay back and let this series play out” England promised to give “absolutely everything” in the remaining two Tests.
Stokes, whose memories of a 5-0 whitewash in previous rounds are still fresh, stressed the importance of pride and resilience. He called his players to show “a little dog” using Adelaide’s loss as motivation to be tougher and more consistent.
As the 2025-26 Ashes series progresses, England’s aim is no longer to win back the bowl, but to restore confidence and competitiveness.
Also WATCH: Nathan Lyon’s deadly spin sends Harry Brook packing on Day 4 of the Adelaide Test.
