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💡 Main takeaway:
Stokes, who took over the team in 2022, referred to his personal experiences in “very difficult times.”
The 34-year-old missed the 2017-18 Ashes tour after an incident outside a Bristol nightclub. Stokes was charged with affray and later acquitted.
Stokes also took a five-month break from cricket in the summer of 2021 to prioritize his mental health.
The all-rounder later revealed that he suffered panic attacks and feared he would never play again. His struggle was revealed in a documentary released in August 2022.
“I’ve had some good times during my career. I’ve also had some very difficult times,” he said.
He added: “Obviously I am aware of the reports and things that are being circulated. For me as captain of the England national team, my main concern is the players and everyone in the dressing room.”
“I know what it can feel like when everything piles up on you. It’s tough. The main thing now as England captain is to make sure everyone is okay.”
Duckett retained his place in the England squad for the fourth Test, with Stokes saying he had spoken to the opener to offer his full support.
Stokes described Duckett as “an incredibly influential person” within the group.
The futures of Stokes, Key and coach Brendon McCullum will be under intense scrutiny whether because of the Ashes result or the behavior of the England players in Australia.
After defeat in the third Test in Adelaide, which sealed England’s fourth successive Ashes loss in Australia, Stokes said he “absolutely” wanted to remain captain.
“Everything is easy when things are going well,” Stokes said. “It’s these moments where I think the responsibility falls on you much more than ever before.
“I will always do my best on the field. I will always do my best off the field. I will always protect my players, especially in moments like this.”
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