"We've Been Very Clear...": Ben Stokes Reveals His Ashes 'Pitch' Plans
England captain Ben Stokes has warned Australia that he has asked for "fast, flat wickets" to take the attack to the Ashes holders later this year. Stokes is hoping to lead England to their first Test series victory over Australia since 2015 and he believes pitch conditions will be crucial. The all-rounder wants groundsmen at Edgbaston, Lord's, Old Trafford, Headingley and The Oval -- the five venues staging Ashes Tests -- to produce the kind of quick pitches that will allow England to use the aggressive game-plan he has deployed with great success since taking over as captain.


