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England face pivotal day-night Test in Brisbane
England will aim to level the Ashes series when they take on Australia in the second Test at Brisbane's Gabba, starting Thursday under floodlights. The match marks England's first opportunity to rebound after a crushing two-day defeat in Perth-the shortest Ashes Test in 104 years.
Stokes defends team's right to unwind amid media storm
Captain Ben Stokes has dismissed criticism of England's off-field activities, insisting his players will continue to enjoy their time in Australia despite intense media scrutiny. Recent images of players riding e-scooters without helmets in Brisbane-an offence punishable by fines under Queensland law-sparked fresh debate.
"If they think it's going to stop us enjoying this country when we have time off, then it's not going to do that," Stokes said. "Australia is the best place to tour. There are so many things to do-great golf courses, coffee shops, and easy places to have lunch."
"We're human. We need to enjoy countries when we get the opportunity because we live in England where it's miserable, freezing cold, and dark at 4pm."
Ben Stokes, England captain
Media frenzy follows England's every move
England's tour has been dogged by relentless coverage, from airport arrivals to golf courses and even a trip to an aquarium in Perth. Former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson labelled the team "arrogant," a remark Stokes shrugged off: "I'd rather words like 'rubbish'. 'Arrogant', I'm not too sure about that."
Stokes, who faced extreme media scrutiny in 2017 over an affray charge (later cleared), acknowledged the pressure but urged perspective. "No-one is doing anything wrong. It's about making sure the lads get that enjoyment element of touring such a great country."
Wicketkeeper Ollie Pope added: "Locking your doors and not coming out of your room is the unhealthy thing to do, as we saw in Covid times."
Team changes and tactical shifts ahead of Gabba clash
England have named all-rounder Will Jacks in place of injured fast bowler Mark Wood for the Brisbane Test. Australia, meanwhile, will be without opener Usman Khawaja, who is sidelined with back spasms.
Stokes ruled out using external scrutiny as motivation, warning it could distract from the team's core objective. "The reason we go out there is to beat Australia. If you're taking emotion in because you feel like you're playing against the whole world, it's taking your mind away from why you're actually out on that field."
Historical tensions and the path forward
The media's focus on England is not unprecedented. Eight years ago, then-director of cricket Andrew Strauss defended the team amid a "headbutt" controversy involving Jonny Bairstow. Even Australian players, such as fast bowler Scott Boland, have voiced discomfort with the attention, calling it intrusive.
England's last Ashes victory in Australia came in 2010-11. Stokes emphasised that on-field performance-not off-field distractions-will dictate the narrative. "The only way England can change their coverage in the Australian media is by winning."
What's next
Regardless of the result in Brisbane, England will regroup on the Sunshine Coast before the third Test in Adelaide, beginning December 17 (23:30 GMT, December 16). The Ashes series runs until January 7, 2026.
