'Stokes will lead England to top'

CRICKET Jos Buttler believes a humbling Ashes loss will make Ben Stokes even more intent on leading England to the top of the world Test rankings.

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Most observers predicted a closely contested battle for the urn but a depleted Australia, who were without their first-choice bowling attack for the entire series, claimed a 4-1 series triumph.

Stokes has been tipped to carry on as Test captain until at least the 2027 Ashes in England.