Ben Stokes has made a bold and impactful decision ahead of the much-anticipated Test series between England and India. The move, if executed as intended, could set a powerful precedent not just for fellow cricketers but for athletes across various sports. Known for his fearless approach both on and off the field, Stokes’ choice highlights his commitment to the game and his leadership qualities. Fans and experts alike are keenly watching how this decision will influence the upcoming series.

Stokes, one of England's best all-rounders of all time, last played his international match in December 2024. Since then, he has been out of any type of contest due to a hamstring injury. Before the series against India, the Three Lions will face Zimbabwe in a one-off Test, where Stokes can make his comeback. As per reports, the star cricketer is nearing the conclusion of rehabilitation.

 As knowledgeable people say, hard times come with wise lessons. Ben Stokes has a self-realization about this injury. In a podcast, the 33-year-old cricketer revealed that since January this year, he has not consumed a single drop of alcohol; that's only to make the body more favorable for a quick recovery. Stokes even thinks that perhaps consumption of alcohol could've exacerbated his hamstring issue. 

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Stokes explained the reasons behind his decision 

In a conversation, Ben Stokes admitted that he and a few others had a drink four or five nights earlier, and questioned whether that might have affected his condition, acknowledging that it likely didn’t help. He then realized it was time to start making changes in his lifestyle. Although he mentioned he doesn’t think he’ll ever be completely sober, he revealed that he hasn’t had a drink since January 2 and made a promise to himself to stay off alcohol until he completes his injury rehab and returns to the field.

"We did have a bit of a drink four or five nights ago; could that have played a part?' It wouldn't have helped. Then I was like, 'OK, I need to start changing what I do.' I don't think I'll ever be completely sober, but I've not had a drink since January 2. I said to myself, Not until I finish my injury rehab and get back on the field," Stokes said in a conversation. 

🚨 STOKES QUIT ALCOHOL. 🚨

- Ben Stokes decides to quit Alcohol to stay fit for India Test series and the Ashes. Drinking might've contributed to his recurring hamstring injury. (Telegraph). pic.twitter.com/IRXRg1JicG

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 19, 2025

From this month (May), England will have to face a tight schedule with matches after matches, starting with a one-off series against Zimbabwe, followed by ODI and T20I series against the West Indies. Then England will host a 5-match Test series against India, which will mark a new circle of the World Test Championship (WTC).