England's Test captain Ben Stokes has launched a robust defence of his team's Ashes preparations, dismissing criticism from former cricketers as the views of "has-beens" who fail to understand modern cricket's demands.
The skipper responded sharply to censure from legendary figures including Sir Ian Botham, Michael Vaughan and Graham Gooch, who have questioned England's abbreviated build-up to the series beginning in Perth on 21 November.
"There are quite a few factors that go into why we can't prepare how the has-beens maybe prepared in the past," Stokes declared during his first media appearance in Australia.
The former players had variously described England's approach as bordering on arrogance, a huge risk, and merely glorified practice.
Ben Stokes has come out swinging amid criticism of England's Ashes preparation
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Stokes highlighted the transformed landscape of international cricket, where congested fixture lists have rendered traditional tour preparations obsolete.
"You used to be able to come out on a tour a month-and-a-half, two months before the first game started. Now there's so much cricket packed into the schedule, it's impossible to do it how it used to be done," the captain explained.
He emphasised that England's approach represents years of strategic planning rather than hasty improvisation.
"We've not been preparing for this tour over the last three weeks, we've put a lot of thought and process into this for a few years now," Stokes insisted.
The captain maintained complete confidence in their methods, stating they are "very comfortable" with their preparation strategy.
Sir Ian Botham was among the England legends to hit out at the preparation for The Ashes
| GETTYStokes confirmed his return to full fitness following the shoulder injury that ended his summer campaign against India in July.
"That's all I've been doing for last three months; making sure I'm fit and strong," the all-rounder revealed, adding that he has been bowling at maximum pace for two months.
The captain promised an uncompromising approach to England's three-day warm-up match against Andrew Flintoff's Lions squad.
"The next three days is balls to the wall for everyone. No easing into it. There'll be a good run out for everyone," he declared.
His injury history has prevented him from completing England's past four Test series, making his fitness crucial to their Ashes ambitions.
The warm-up contest will feature an authentic eleven-a-side format, with several Test squad members joining Flintoff's Lions to ensure competitive cricket.
Ben Stokes has also come under fire from Australian media
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Stokes indicated the battle for England's number three position remains undecided between incumbent Ollie Pope and emerging talent Jacob Bethell.
"Popey has done a great job for us at number three. He is the man in possession," the captain acknowledged, whilst noting nine days remain before final selection.
The skipper appeared unfazed by hostile Australian media coverage, including a front-page headline branding him "Captain Cocky Complainer".
"It's been quite funny to see what's been coming out recently," Stokes remarked, suggesting such provocations are merely part of touring Australia.