Ben Stokes and Jake Leach. (Photo Source: Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)
The English Test team has undergone massive changes ever since all-rounder Ben Stokes took charge and stepped in as the skipper. Alongside Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum has changed the face of English cricket by introducing their own brand of ‘Bazball’ cricket.
Stokes became the captain of the Test team in 2022 and has completely revolutionized the squad and their playstyle. The 32-year-old is yet to lose a Test series as skipper, and considering the side’s form in red-ball cricket, it is safe to say that the entire squad fully backs and believes in Stokes’ ability to lead the red-ball team to greater heights.
Reflecting on the same, star spinner Jack Leach came forward to heap praise on the leadership ability of Stokes and talked of the companionship that has been built within the squad ever since he took over. There is no doubt that Stokes has been one of the most important players for England in their Test setup over the years, and Leach had no doubt that the 32-year-old is the man to lead them from the front.
“Stokesy makes you want to run through a brick wall for him because you know he’d do the same. It feels weird to me that Ben Stokes would run through a brick wall for Jack Leach. I don’t get it. But he would. He’s not just saying things. He does them and he lives them,” Leach said on the Vaughany and Tuffers podcast.
“Look at Stokes. When he goes in at 400 for five, he usually hits one straight up. When he goes in at 100 for five, he will take his time, do what he needs to do, and then go at the right time. Very smart. He’s the greatest example for us to look up to,” he added.
With the Ashes 2023 hanging in the balance for both England and Australia, the hosts will be heavily dependent on the batting prowess of Stokes to get them out of danger, if need be. Notably, the English skipper hit a brilliant ton at Lord’s and looked to be in fabulous form at Headingley as well.