Stokes takes playful swipe at former captain ahead of Adelaide Ashes toss

With England trailing Australia 2-0 in the five-match Ashes series, Stokes offered reporters a wry reminder of a controversial choice by Hussain in 2002 when he elected to bowl first at the Gabba — a call that backfired dramatically. The current England leader stopped short of announcing his toss plan outright but made clear he did not want to repeat what he joked had made Hussain a “meme,” highlighting how key decisions can shape momentum in Australia’s heat and on batting-friendly wickets. England made one change to their XI, bringing in fast bowler Josh Tongue, while spinner Shoaib Bashir was left out yet again.

Stokes sets the tone for a must-win Test

Speaking ahead of play at Adelaide Oval — where the first two days are forecast to be extremely hot — Stokes stressed the importance of bold yet sensible choices. England know a win in Adelaide is essential if they are to keep their hopes of reclaiming the Ashes alive. By invoking Hussain’s infamous Brisbane decision, Stokes reinforced a message about learning from history and making sharp tactical calls under pressure.

The captain’s comments also reflect his belief in taking the initiative rather than reacting timidly to conditions or history. With weather and pitch expected to favour batters early on, Stokes’s likely preference to bat could help his team build first-innings runs and put scoreboard pressure on Australia.

Team changes and strategy

England’s only selection change from their loss in Brisbane saw Josh Tongue replace Gus Atkinson in the pace attack. Stokes’s decision to overlook young spinner Shoaib Bashir for a third consecutive Test underscores the need for seam-bowling strength and adaptability to Aussie conditions as they chase a victory.

As the series reaches its midpoint, England’s focus will be on discipline in all three departments — batting, bowling and fielding — with Stokes urging his side to respond to the challenge of an in-form Australian lineup. His marathon efforts with both bat and leadership have already placed him at the heart of England’s tactical direction.

Context and wider significance

The playful reference to Hussain’s past call underlines how even light-hearted moments can carry tactical meaning in cricket’s oldest rivalry. England’s campaign has been tough, and while humour helps lift tension, every decision — from the toss to bowling choices — will be scrutinised as the team tries to spark a turnaround in Adelaide.

If England can win this match, the series will swing back into contention with two Tests to follow. But with Australia still firmly in control, Stokes’s task remains difficult and requires every advantage he can cultivate before the toss.