England have received a major boost ahead of the Ashes 2025 in Australia as Test skipper Ben Stokes returned to training. Stokes, who injured his shoulder during the fourth Test against India in Manchester, has eased fears of missing the start of the series by batting in the nets with Durham. His availability is crucial as England look to win their first Ashes series in Australia since 2011.
Durham coach Ryan Campbell confirmed Stokes’ progress. “Stokes is back in training,” Campbell told BBC Radio 5 Live. “Over the last week, he’s started to hit balls and had a really good session. Scott Borthwick was throwing to him with (coach) Will Gidman for nearly two hours.
“The batting side of things is going very well but the bowling will take a lot longer. He is being treated very steadily.”
Mark Wood Fitness Update
England are also sweating on the fitness of fast bowler Mark Wood. The right-armer has recovered from a knee injury sustained during the ICC Champions Trophy in February. Campbell confirmed Wood is likely to play red-ball cricket for Durham in the County Championship next week to prove his match fitness before the Ashes series opener in Perth on November 21.
England Manage Player Workload
One player almost certain to feature in the first Ashes Test is Ben Duckett. England recently withdrew Duckett and keeper-batter Jamie Smith from the T20I squad against South Africa to keep them fresh for the trip to Australia.
England coach Brendon McCullum said, “I spoke to him (Duckett) and said ‘I think you need to freshen up’. I’m in the racing game and not even Phar Lap (legendary Australian horse) can go around every week. Even he needs to go to the paddock occasionally.
“He’ll have a decent break at home, as will Jamie Smith.”
Jacob Bethell in Contention
McCullum also hinted at youngster Jacob Bethell being in contention after his recent maiden international century in an ODI against South Africa.
“We will work that out when we get to Australia,” McCullum added.
“We’ve got a few other fish to fry before we get there, but I think we’ve said since we introduced Jacob that he’s got a huge future in front of him.
“He’s very quickly taken to international cricket and things have come really quickly for him as well. He’s going to have some life – 21 years of age and being able to play like he does, and have the head on his shoulders that he’s got too. He’ll just keep working hard and we’ll see what unfolds.”
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