Stokes goes into bat for under-fire team-mate

England captain Ben Stokes prepared for today's Boxing Day Test by throwing a protective arm around his beleaguered side and pledging his support for opener Ben Duckett.

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England skipper Ben Stokes

The tourists have lost the Ashes after going 3-0 down and their buildup to the fourth Test has been beset by reports of excessive drinking on their mid-series trip to Noosa.

Unverified footage emerged on social media appearing to show an inebriated Duckett in a tense exchange with members of the public.