Ben Stokes delivered a sensational performance in England's Ashes warm-up match against the England Lions at Lilac Hill Park in Perth on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Stokes, who hadn't played competitive cricket since July due to a shoulder injury, showcased his readiness for the upcoming Ashes series by taking six wickets for 52 runs in 16 overs.
Stokes' performance is a strong signal to Australia ahead of the 2025-26 Ashes series, which begins on November 21 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Under his captaincy, England aims to reclaim the urn on Australian soil for the first time since 2010/11.
The England captain made timely breakthroughs, dismissing Tom Haines and Jacob Bethell early in the match. Stokes then struck again, removing Jordan Cox and Rehan Ahmed, with both batsmen falling to catches at fine leg off bouncers. Late in the innings, he added another double-strike, dismissing Tom Lawes and Will Jacks. Will Jacks top-scored for the Lions with 84, while Ben McKinney contributed 67. The England Lions were eventually bowled out for 382.
Despite Stokes' impressive performance, there was some concern for Mark Wood, who complained of hamstring stiffness after bowling eight overs and will undergo a precautionary scan. Wood's injury is a concern, especially after Australian squad members Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott also suffered hamstring problems. Jofra Archer bowled 12.3 overs, while Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson were also part of the pace attack. Brydon Carse missed the first day due to illness.
England's decision to field an all-pace attack, leaving out spinner Shoaib Bashir, hints at their strategy for the first Test at the Optus Stadium. Ollie Pope is slated to bat at No. 3.
The decision to have only one warm-up match before the Ashes series has drawn criticism. Some former players have questioned whether this provides adequate preparation. However, Stokes dismissed these concerns, labeling the critics "has-beens" and expressing confidence in the team's preparation. He highlighted that the current cricketing landscape has changed and that the team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparation. Ben Duckett described Stokes as being in "beast mode", noting his intense training regimen.
With the first Ashes Test just a week away, Stokes' outstanding performance has boosted England's confidence. His six-wicket haul serves as a warning to the Australian side.
