'England’s Cocky Captain...' - Australian media mocks Ben Stokes ahead of 2025-26 Ashes series
An Australian newspaper mocked England captain Ben Stokes as “England’s Cocky Captain Complainer” ahead of the 2025-26 Ashes, reigniting the traditional pre-series mind games between the two rivals.
The England captain, Ben Stokes, has arrived in Australia in advance of the much-anticipated Ashes Test series of 2025-26. A photo of the star all-rounder taken outside the airport has already made headlines across Australian newspapers as both teams prepare for what promises to be another thrilling cricketing contest between two fierce rivals.
For Australia, the mind games appear to have already begun. While former cricketers such as David Warner and Glenn McGrath have made bold predictions about the series, one local daily has gone a step further, taking a mocking swipe at the visiting England skipper.
The Australian newspaper The West Australian labeled Ben Stokes as “England’s Cocky Captain Complainer” on the front page of its latest edition. The article also reminded readers of 'crease-gate' from the 2023 Ashes in England, where Jonny Bairstow was stumped by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey, causing much rage among English fans and players.
Australian Media Takes Aim at Stokes and ‘BazBall’
Referring to Stokes’ arrival, The West Australian ran a sharp headline that read: “England’s Cocky Captain Complainer, still smarting from crease-gate, lands in Perth early thinking dopey ‘BazBall’ can take the Ashes.” The remark is seen as part of the traditional pre-Ashes banter that often heats up before the contest officially begins.
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This isn’t the first time the Australian press has taken jabs at England ahead of an Ashes series. Back in 2013, the Brisbane Courier Mail refused to mention Stuart Broad’s name, calling him “the 27-year-old medium pacer” after he didn’t walk following an edge.
The 2025-26 Ashes series is scheduled to commence on November 21 at the Optus Stadium, Perth and will signify the next chapter of cricket’s oldest rivalry. It will also contribute toward the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, adding extra significance to the Australia-England battle.
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