In a candid revelation, England Test captain Ben Stokes shared how a major injury prompted a significant lifestyle change, leading him to give up alcohol in January as part of his rehabilitation process.
A torn left hamstring, sustained during England’s tour of New Zealand in December 2024, sidelined the all-rounder, forcing him to miss competitive cricket for months.
Now, Ben Stokes is poised to make a triumphant comeback in a one-off Test against Zimbabwe, starting May 22, with his sights firmly set on the upcoming India Test series and the Ashes later in the year.
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Ben Stokes Vows to Stay Sober Until He's Back
Speaking on the Untapped podcast, Stokes recounted a moment of realization following his injury. To support his recovery, Stokes gave up alcohol starting January 2, 2025, as part of a broader commitment to achieve peak fitness levels.
"After my first major injury, I remember the shock of it, after the initial adrenaline had stopped, thinking, ‘How has this happened? We did have a bit of a drink four or five nights ago, could that have played a part? It wouldn’t have helped,'" Stokes said as quoted on the Untapped podcast.
He further elaborated on his commitment to sobriety during his recovery, stating,
"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’. The day I wake up and can’t be bothered to do the training is getting towards that time you don’t really want it any more. But I haven’t got any interest in stopping."
Stokes’ injury was a significant blow, requiring surgery and a six-month rehabilitation period. The setback followed an earlier hamstring issue during The Hundred in August 2024, which he had overcome to play in New Zealand.
Stokes is set to make his competitive return in a one-off Test match between England and Zimbabwe, scheduled to begin on May 22, 2025. This marks his first international match since the hamstring injury in December.
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What's Next for Ben Stokes?
Looking ahead, Stokes is laser-focused on England’s five-match Test series against India, starting on June 20, where he aims to lead with bat, ball, and captaincy.
The Ashes in Australia, set for late 2025, looms as the ultimate goal, with Stokes drawing on his history of prioritizing this marquee series.
Also read: BCCI Boycotts Asia Cup 2025 to Isolate Pakistan - Report
