Stokes Calls for Grit as Tongue Returns for Crucial Ashes Test

England cricket captain Ben Stokes has urged his team to “show a bit of dog” in the crucial third Ashes Test against Australia, with the series at stake. Following an eight-wicket defeat at the Gabba in the second Test, which left England trailing 2-0 in the five-match series, the team has made a single change. Josh Tongue has been brought back into the squad in place of Gus Atkinson.

Despite playing on a pitch anticipated to benefit slow bowlers, specialist spinner Shoaib Bashir has been left out in favor of batting all-rounder Will Jacks. Stokes emphasized the importance of “meaningful conversations” held within the team to reverse their fortunes.

“I’ve said everything I needed to in the past two days. Now, it’s all about what unfolds on the field in Adelaide this week,” Stokes stated. He highlighted the need for resilience, understanding game situations, and consistently challenging opponents with determination and fight.

As the must-win Test in Adelaide approaches, starting Wednesday, England has opted to go without Bashir, who has not impressed recently, conceding over a run a ball in a warm-up match and failing to achieve any wickets against Australia A. Australia, meanwhile, has reinstated their top spinner, Nathan Lyon.

Reflecting on Bashir’s exclusion, Stokes commented, “It’s unfortunate for Bash, but we believe having Jacksy at No. 8 slightly bolsters our batting lineup. We’ve had to make tough decisions to form a team that can give us the best chance with both bat and ball since we’re 2-0 down in the series.”

Tongue, who was England’s leading wicket-taker against India earlier this year and took five wickets in his sole previous Ashes Test at Lord’s in 2023, replaces Atkinson, who has struggled in the series with just three wickets at an average of 78.66.

England Team: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer

Published on Dec 15, 2025