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Ben Stokes' Sensational Return: 6 Wickets in Ashes Warm-Up After Injury

Ben Stokes made a spectacular return to cricket after months out with injury. He took six crucial wickets in England's Ashes warm-up match against the Lions. This performance comes just days before the highly anticipated Ashes series begins in Perth. Meanwhile, Mark Wood's fitness remains a concern with hamstring issues ahead of the first Test.

Key Points: Ben Stokes Takes 6 Wickets in England Ashes Warm-Up Match

  • Stokes claimed six wickets including key batsmen Will Jacks and Jordan Cox
  • England Lions posted 382 all out despite Stokes' bowling heroics
  • Mark Wood faces injury concern with hamstring stiffness before Ashes
  • England seeks first Ashes win in Australia since famous 2010/11 triumph
2 min read

Ahead of Ashes, Ben Stokes shines in England warm-up match

Ben Stokes makes stunning comeback with 6-52 against England Lions, providing crucial boost ahead of 2025-26 Ashes series starting November 21 in Perth.

"The star all-rounder, who hadn't played since July due to a shoulder injury, bowled 16 overs across three spells - Match Report"

Perth, November 13

Ben Stokes made a sensational comeback to competitive cricket, claiming six wickets on the first day of England's Ashes warm-up match against England Lions in Perth on Thursday.

The star all-rounder, who hadn't played since July due to a shoulder injury, bowled 16 overs across three spells and finished with impressive figures of 6-52. His return is a significant boost for England as they prepare for the Ashes series.

The Ashes series between Australia and England for the 2025-26 season is scheduled to begin on November 21, with the first Test to be played at Optus Stadium in Perth.

He dismissed Lions captain Tom Haines with the fifth ball he bowled. He also removed Jacob Bethell (2), Will Jacks (84), Jordan Cox (53), Tom Lawes (0) and Rehan Ahmed (16).

This Ashes will be a crucial Test for England, fuelled by their aggressive 'Bazball' brand of cricket.

During England's harrowing run, they are yet to win a Test, let alone an Ashes series in Australia, since their famous triumph in 2010/11. England last won the prized urn in 2015 on their home soil.

Coming to the match, batting first, the England Lions posted a competitive total of 382 all out in 79.3 overs. Will Jacks led the charge with a top score of 84 off 85 balls, ably supported by Ben McKinney's 67 and Jordan Cox's 53.

Rehan Ahmed and Thomas Rew also contributed valuable knocks of 16 and 55, respectively, helping the Lions put up a solid total.

Meanwhile, Mark Wood is set to undergo precautionary scans after suffering hamstring stiffness during England's warm-up game against the England Lions ahead of the Ashes, as per the ICC website.

However, according to the statement released by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Wood is expected to bowl in two days' time, though he is unlikely to take the field for the remainder of the warm-up action.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Great to see Stokes back in action! But honestly, England's record in Australia is quite poor - haven't won there since 2010/11. The 'Bazball' approach might be exciting, but will it work on Australian pitches? 🤔 As an Indian, I've seen how tough Australian conditions can be for visiting teams.
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Arjun K
Stokes is a proper champion player yaar! Taking 6 wickets after shoulder injury shows his mental strength. England Lions still managed 382 though - their batting looks decent. Mark Wood's injury concern is worrying for England though. Hope he recovers soon!
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Sarah B
While Stokes' performance is impressive, I'm concerned about the timing of this Ashes series. November seems quite early in the Australian summer. The pitches might not have their usual character yet. Hope we get to see competitive cricket between these traditional rivals! 🏏
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Kavya N
As an Indian cricket enthusiast, I love watching the Ashes rivalry! Stokes returning to form is great for cricket. But England really need to improve their overseas record. They haven't won in Australia for over a decade now. The Bazball approach will be tested on bouncy Australian tracks.
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Michael C
Respectfully, I think we're overhyping warm-up performances. The real test begins on November 21. Australian conditions are completely different, and their bowling attack will be much more challenging. Stokes is quality, but let's wait for the actual series before making big claims.

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