Stokes hits back at 'has-beens' over England's preparations

Ben Stokes has warned England's players to be wary of an Australian media desperate to pounce on any indiscretion or hint of scandal, saying the Ashes tourists have already been the subject of some “unbelievable journalism” and that such treatment is “part of being in Australia ... it’s not just stuff out on the field that can get you, it’s also the off-field stuff”.

- Simon Burnton

The England captain's disgruntlement with his side's treatment extends to criticism of their preparations, with Stokes hitting out at the “has-beens” who have been leading the complaints and insisting the squad “leave no stone unturned” and “have prepared incredibly well”.

Stokes’s arrival in Perth prompted the West Australian newspaper to launch an attack on “England’s cocky captain complainer” over a front-page photograph of the 34-year-old pushing his bags through the airport, while Joe Root was subjected to similar treatment on Monday.

Stokes said: “It’s expected. That’s part of being in Australia. It’s another one of those things we’re going to have to deal with, especially some of the guys out here for the first time. It’s not just stuff out on the field that can get you, it’s also the off-field stuff. It’s how you take it. You [have to] take it in your stride and laugh it off.