Stokes’ Relentless Drive: A Double-Edged Sword for England

By Jonathan Agnew
BBC Chief Cricket Commentator | 27 July 2025

As Ben Stokes charged in during the final day of the fourth Test against India, spectators held their breath. Battling persistent niggles, the England captain resembled a warrior held together by sheer willpower. His 6 wickets with the aged ball (40+ overs) in this series dwarf the combined tally of Woakes, Carse, Archer, and Tongue (2 wickets). Yet, this brilliance comes at a cost.

The Stokes Conundrum: Leadership vs Longevity

• Unmatched Impact: Stokes’ 4/55 at Old Trafford underscored his status as England’s most potent bowler, outshining both teammates and opponents.
• Fitness Fears: With the Ashes looming, Agnew warns: "Without Stokes, England’s hopes dim. It’s Stokes or bust."
• Unheeded Advice: Coaching staff and teammates have long urged caution, but Stokes’ sense of responsibility overrides external voices.

Archer’s Reality Check: Pace vs Endurance

Jofra Archer’s return revealed harsh truths:

• Fading Speed: Final spells dipped to 83mph, highlighting stamina gaps compared to Mark Wood’s 95mph consistency.
• Role Recalibration: Agnew suggests Archer thrives in short bursts (à la Lord’s comeback) rather than marathon spells.

Spin Dilemma: Dawson’s Underwhelming Return

Liam Dawson’s 47-over stint (0/95) drew mixed reviews:

• Accuracy Over Threat: His chest-on technique limits turn but offers control – potentially valuable in Australian conditions.
• Swann Comparisons: Like Graeme Swann in 2010-11, Dawson could anchor an end during Ashes heat.

The Oval Preview: Tactical Overhauls Loom

• Bowling Reshuffle: Exhausted quicks (Woakes, Archer, Carse) may make way for Tongue/Atkinson.
• Stokes’ Fitness: A grassy pitch could ease bowling strain, but batting-only roles risk weakening England’s attack.
• Series Stakes: India’s resurgence sets up a winner-takes-all finale – England’s first five-Test marathon since 2023.

"Stokes isn’t just the heart of this team – he’s the lungs and legs too," Agnew concludes. "England’s Ashes dreams hinge on one man’s ability to defy physics."

Stats Spotlight
Stokes’ Series Impact:

• 6 wickets with old ball (40+ overs)
• Economy rate: 2.8
• 78% of overs bowled in 4th innings

Related Coverage

• Gill Unsure About Bumrah’s Availability
• Vaughan: England’s Stokes Dependency Could Backfire