Perth, Australia - As the highly anticipated 2025-26 Ashes series kicks off in Perth on November 21st, Australia appears to be drawing inspiration from an unlikely source: their past encounters with Virat Kohli's India. Acting captain Steve Smith has indicated that Australia will employ a measured approach when dealing with England's captain, Ben Stokes, aiming to avoid provoking him into unleashing his match-winning potential.

This strategy echoes the tactics Australia previously used against Virat Kohli, particularly during his peak years, where they consciously avoided attempts to rile him up. The rationale was simple: "don't poke the bear". Australia recognizes that Stokes, much like Kohli, thrives under pressure and is capable of turning a game on its head.

"I think he's done a terrific job with England over the past couple of years," Smith stated at a press conference at Optus Stadium on Thursday. "[He] is potentially someone you don't want to get too riled up," Smith added, acknowledging Stokes' ability to single-handedly alter the course of a match.

Former Australian opener David Warner has previously voiced similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of not "poking that bear" to prevent Stokes from becoming overly motivated. Stokes himself recounts an incident in his book where Warner's remarks about his criminal trial before the 2019 Headingley Test served as fuel for his epic match-winning innings.

However, former England captain Andrew Strauss has warned Stokes about Australia's mind games, stating that Australia will try to get under his skin during the five-Test series.

Meanwhile, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has suggested that England's "Bazball" approach, championed by Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, was specifically designed to win the Ashes in Australia. Ponting believes that "Bazball" was always meant to be a strategy specifically for this one series.

Stokes himself remains focused on the task at hand, stating, "This is our chance to create our own history. It's up to us how that looks". He acknowledged the significance of the series, recognizing it as the "biggest series" he will lead the side in. However, he also stated that the result of the series would not define his legacy as England captain.

England has not won a Test match in Australia since 2011, and Stokes is determined to reverse that trend. To do so, he is calling on his team to not be afraid and to approach the contest with clarity. "It's looking it in the eyes, taking it on and not being afraid of the challenge," Stokes said.

As the first Test approaches, the stage is set for a captivating battle between two formidable teams. Australia's tactical approach towards Ben Stokes, coupled with England's determination to create history, promises a series filled with drama, skill, and intense competition. The first test of the 2025-26 Ashes series begins on November 21 at Optus Stadium in Perth.