The article, "The Ashes: Winning in Australia would be Ben Stokes' greatest miracle for England," posits that England's aspirations of reclaiming the Ashes in Australia are almost entirely dependent on the singular brilliance and leadership of Ben Stokes. It frames a potential series victory Down Under as Stokes' "greatest miracle," given England's formidable historical struggles in Australia and their current reliance on their talismanic all-rounder. The piece opens by reflecting on England's narrow defeat to India, highlighting how even in a close contest, the absence of Stokes exposes England's vulnerabilities. It underscores the sentiment that with Stokes, England can beat anyone, but without him, they are susceptible. Despite Stokes' own dismissal of concerns about over-reliance, the article firmly asserts that he is England's "beating heart," providing not just runs, wickets, and fielding prowess, but also crucial tactical nous and focus as captain. The author even suggests the team's aggressive style should be dubbed "Benball" rather than "Bazball," acknowledging Stokes' profound influence.
England's historical performance in Australia is presented as a stark backdrop to their current challenge. Over the past 14 years, England has played 15 Tests in Australia, losing 13, drawing two, and winning none. This dismal record sets a "low bar" for their current "best chance of success" since their last victory in 2010-11. The article emphasizes the sheer inexperience within the touring squad, noting that none will have tasted victory in a Test in Australia, and as few as five will have played a Test there. Crucially, Stokes is highlighted as the only player in the squad with a Test hundred on Australian soil and one of only two bowlers (the other being Mark Wood, who faces fitness concerns) with a five-wicket haul there. This underscores the immense burden placed on his shoulders.
Stokes' personal challenge is multifaceted: he must recover from a shoulder injury, perform like the legendary Ian Botham, captain like the astute Mike Brearley, and, perhaps most critically, stay fit and available. His recent history of not playing a full part in England's last four Test series due to injuries is a significant concern. However, the article also recounts his numerous past "water into wine" moments – from the 2019 World Cup final and Headingley Test to the 2022 T20 World Cup final and various clutch Test innings – reinforcing his reputation as England's "patron saint of lost causes" and the man for the big occasion.
The article then delves into the supporting cast and potential challenges. While England's batting, featuring Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Ben Duckett, looks strong, it is only "an injury from Jacob Bethell," highlighting depth concerns. The bowling attack is less certain, with the tantalizing prospect of a fit Mark Wood partnering Jofra Archer on a "spicy Perth pitch" being a dream scenario. Other potential bowlers like Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, and Josh Tongue are mentioned, alongside the confirmed spinner Shoaib Bashir, whom Ricky Ponting rates highly. Preparation anxiety is also noted, with England scheduled for only one warm-up game against their own Lions team, despite a habit of winning first Tests but losing finales.
The psychological warfare from Australia is anticipated to intensify, with key Australian figures like Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, and David Warner already vocal. The article suggests that the "Bazball" approach particularly "irks" Australians, who respect Stokes but not Brendon McCullum. On the Australian side, their batting has questions, particularly the top three, featuring a "fading veteran" in Usman Khawaja and an "out-of-position" Cameron Green, though their middle order with Smith and Travis Head is formidable. Australia's "super-strength" is their bowling, comprising the "Four Horsemen" of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Lyon, with Scott Boland as a potent backup. The article concludes by summarizing the contest: England has the "better batting," Australia the "better bowling." Given that "bowlers tend to win series" and Australia's home advantage, they will start as favorites. However, the final, emphatic point reiterates the central thesis: "But England have Stokes." The countdown to the first Test in Perth is set at 108 days, filled with anticipation, anxiety, and the hope that Stokes can indeed deliver his greatest miracle.