England captain Ben Stokes has come out in defence of his players as the Ashes tour continues to unravel, with fresh controversy adding to the pressure on an already struggling side. Stokes has urged perspective and empathy amid intense scrutiny. The latest distraction emerged on Wednesday following claims of excessive drinking during a team visit to Noosa. The episode has attracted a lot of criticism, raising questions about their off-field behaviour. Recently, a video on social media appeared to show Ben Duckett intoxicated and struggling to find his way back to the team hotel.

“Reports and everything circulating right now—my main concern is how I handle this moment right now is the most important thing to me,” Stokes said at a press conference ahead of the Boxing Day Test.

“The welfare of everyone in there and probably some certain individuals as well is the most important thing to me right now as England captain. This kind of stuff is very, I don’t know if “close to me” is the right wording, but something that I have first hand experience of how it can affect people. And as I said, my role as England captain is to protect my players as much as I possibly can."

The series has already slipped away from England with three defeats in a row, and the only thing they can achieve now is to avoid a series whitewash. The next two games are highly crucial for England to end their tour on a positive note.

“We have a goal still to try and achieve out here on this trip. It’s not gone anywhere near to plan whatsoever. We’ve still got two games of cricket to play. We’ve still got a lot of efforts and energies to put in in the remaining of this tour."

“Looking after my players is one of the main things that I need to get out of this because we need to go out there and win two games of cricket. I know how this kind of stuff can affect people, and as I said, I will always protect my players as much as I possibly can."

"Right here, right now, that is my main job as England captain is to ensure that they know that they have my backing because the most important thing to me, sitting here right now, is a group of players who I can get into a best possible state to go out there and try and perform for this country and the remaining of this trip.”