England captain Ben Stokes believes the next two months of Ashes cricket will be the most important series of his career.
The latest instalment in one of sport’s most enduring rivalries begins in Perth on Friday in front of a sell-out 60,000 crowd.
It has been billed as a battle that will define the legacy of the entire ‘Bazball’ era and Stokes accepts the hype is justified.
“I understand what this series means in my journey as England captain,” he said on the eve of the first Test.
“It’s certainly the biggest series I will lead this side in. I’m aware of that. Brendon (McCullum) is aware of that as coach. Rob Key is aware of that in his role (as managing director) as well.
“I understand all the ‘defining series’ stuff. I get it. For me personally it’s not going to detract from what I’ve given to my role as England captain. It’s something I’ve thoroughly enjoyed and I wake up every morning loving what I do.
“It’s the greatest honour in English cricket to lead this team out. But I’m desperate to be an Ashes-winning captain.”
