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England captain Ben Stokes targets historic Ashes triumph in Australia
England captain Ben Stokes has urged his team to "create history" by securing a rare Ashes series victory in Australia, a feat achieved by only five post-war England sides-and just twice in the past four decades. The last time England won an Ashes series on Australian soil was in 2010-11, which also marked their most recent Test victory in the country.
High stakes in Perth opener
The first Test begins Friday in Perth, where Stokes' revitalized England side-coached by Brendon McCullum since 2022-enters with genuine confidence after a dramatic 2-2 draw in last summer's home Ashes. "A lot has been said about the history and how it's gone for England," Stokes acknowledged. "This is our chance to create our own history."
England's last Ashes triumph came in 2015 on home turf, followed by a 4-0 defeat in Australia in 2017-18. A victory this winter would cement Stokes' legacy alongside the five post-war captains who have left Australia with the urn.
Pace attack and injury comeback
England may deploy their fastest-ever Test lineup, with Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, and Stokes all capable of exceeding 90mph. "If we'd been offered this pace battery two years ago, we'd have taken it immediately," Stokes said, emphasizing the team's long-term planning for Australian conditions.
Stokes returns fully fit after a shoulder injury sidelined him during England's July Test against India. His dual role as all-rounder-"giving full commitment with bat and ball"-will be pivotal to England's chances.
Australia's depleted squad
Hosts Australia face injury setbacks, with captain Pat Cummins (back) and pace bowler Josh Hazlewood (hamstring) ruled out of the opener. Debuts are expected for opener Jake Weatherald and pacer Brendan Doggett. However, Stokes dismissed suggestions of an easier challenge: "We focus on ourselves-this game won't be taken lightly, regardless of their XI."
Perth's new battleground
The series debuts at Perth Stadium, replacing the historic Waca Ground. England's sole Test win in Perth came in 1978 against a weakened Australia. Stokes, who starred in England's 2019 Headingley miracle, insists the team's focus remains undistracted by venue or history.
Future commitments
With McCullum's contract extending to 2027, Stokes recently signed a two-year deal to remain available for the next home Ashes. "It was a very easy decision," he said of prioritizing England over franchise cricket. "I want to give everything to this team in an England shirt."
"This is our chance to create our own history-and it's up to us how that looks."
Ben Stokes, England captain
