Sydney, 07 January (H.S.): England captain Ben Stokes was forced off the field Wednesday due to a groin injury (right adductor) on Day 4 of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The injury struck about 15 minutes into play, heightening concerns for England trailing 3-1 in the series.

Stokes sustained the blow while bowling the second over of the morning session. He managed just four balls of his 28th over before feeling discomfort and immediately heading to the dressing room. Australia were 523/7 at the time, and Jacob Bethell completed the over.

An England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) spokesperson said: Ben Stokes is being assessed for a right adductor issue. Updates will follow as available.

Heavy Workload Takes Toll

Stokes has been England's most reliable seamer throughout the Ashes, bowling 101.1 overs—the second-highest in the team behind Brydon Carse's 130.4. He claimed 15 wickets at an average of 25.13, including a standout 5/23 in Perth's first innings.

However, questions persist over his prolonged spells and new-ball avoidance, especially without key pacers Gus Atkinson and Jofra Archer.Brook Assumes CaptaincyWith Stokes absent for under 40 minutes, no ICC batting restrictions applied.

Deputy Harry Brook took over captaincy duties for the first time in a Test. Australia lost their final three wickets for 32 runs, all out for 567 and securing a 183-run first-innings lead.It remains unclear if Stokes will bat at his usual No. 6 in England's second innings.

Injury-Plagued Recent Form

This marks Stokes' fourth injury in 18 months. In 2024, a hamstring issue sidelined him from the home series against Sri Lanka during The Hundred. Further setbacks followed on tours to Pakistan and New Zealand.The 34-year-old recently extended his ECB contract to 2027. Before the series, he noted that staying fit requires extra effort with age, but his competitive fire takes over on the field.

Path Ahead

The injury compounds woes for England, already 3-1 down. Stokes is absent from white-ball plans, with his next likely international outing a Test against New Zealand at Lord's on June 4. He could return via Durham in the County Championship.While disappointing, the timing offers relief as it hits in the series' dying days.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar