Stokes was unable to play on the field due to injury

England’s injury woes in the Ashes series have deepened, with captain Ben Stokes forced to leave the field on the fourth day of the final Test in Sydney. Stokes experienced discomfort in his right leg muscle while bowling at the start of the day, prompting him to withdraw from play.

This latest setback comes amid a spate of injuries that have already sidelined three of England’s frontline pace bowlers—Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson—earlier in the series. Whether Stokes will be able to return later in the match remains uncertain.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement confirming that Stokes’ right leg injury is being assessed, with further updates to be provided once a full diagnosis is complete.

For Stokes, this represents the fourth major injury over the past eighteen months, following previous hamstring, shoulder, and knee problems. These recurring injuries have prevented him from completing several international series in full, highlighting ongoing concerns over his fitness.

The incident occurred during the second over of the morning session. After delivering the fourth ball of his 28th over, Stokes walked off towards the dressing room, leaving Australia at 523 runs for seven wickets. His over was completed by Jacob Bethell.

Following Stokes’ departure, Harry Brook assumed acting captaincy for the first time. Under his temporary leadership, England managed to claim the final three Australian wickets for just 32 runs, dismissing the hosts for 567 in their first innings. This left Australia with a slender first-innings lead of 183 runs.

Stokes has been England’s most reliable pace bowler in this Ashes series, having taken 15 wickets across the matches to date. His absence, even temporarily, is a significant blow to the team’s bowling attack as they look to contain the formidable Australian batting lineup.

England Ashes Injury Summary

England’s pace attack, heavily reliant on Stokes, now faces a crucial period as they attempt to recover both momentum and personnel in the concluding stages of the Ashes.