NO GROUNDS FOR ALARM

Stokes insists his men can cope with famed 'Gabbatoir' cauldron

- RORY DOLLARD in Brisbane

BEN STOKES insists England have no fear of the ‘Gabbatoir’, the Brisbane stronghold where so many Ashes dreams have unravelled.

The imposing Queensland venue has long been a trump card for Australia, who revel in its intimidating nickname and history.

England won their first two Tests at the Gabba, in 1933 and 1936, but have only tasted success twice more in 20 attempts.

But Stokes (below), whose side are 1-0 down after losing in Perth, does not feel weighed down by what has gone before.

“Lots of our guys are on their first Ashes tour, so this is going to be a new experience for them. No, it doesn't hold too much fear,’ he said.

“Every time you go out there, your juices are always flowing, regardless of the venue you do play at.