MELBOURNE, Dec 24, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Emotional captain Ben Stokes Wednesday said protecting England players' welfare was his top concern amid claims of excessive drinking on a mid-Ashes beach break, without directly addressing the allegations. Stokes, whose team have already lost the Ashes, said his main concern was the players' mental welfare and to ensure they were ready for the Melbourne Test starting Friday. "I'm obviously aware of the reports and everything circulating around right now," Stokes said. "My main concern right now is my players, and how I handle this moment right now is the most important thing to me. Asked directly whether his teammates had "done anything wrong in Noosa", Stokes replied: "I've just answered everything there."

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha December 24, 2025 06:15 UTC