As Ben Stokes has been an integral part of England national set-up, the premium fast bowler Stuart Broad discussed the importance and popularity of Durham-based all-rounder, as the Three Lions have had already reached to Australia for the traditional five-match Ashes Test series which will kick-off with the Brisbane Test on November 23.
“So, his [Ben Stokes] characteristics are instilled in the team anyway whether he is on the pitch or not,” Broad said in a video capsule ESPNcricinfo.
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However, Broad revealed he is not aware of Stokes’ development, as of now, while reiterating the members of the squad are hoping to see him in the fold with both the team have had registered 32 wins each to take coveted Urn back home.
“First what I don’t think any knows what Stoksy [Ben Stokes] situation will be… Obviously, we’re hoping to have him in Australia,” Broad added.
With 70th edition of Ashes little over three weeks away, Jimmy Anderson’s bowling partner Broad stated Stokes gelled the players while adding his words could further prove fruitful on Australian soil.
“What he has given to the team will stay with the team. And that will stand us in good stead in Australia,” Broad further added.
Competitive Broad believes the solitary performances won’t win a competition like Ashes while reflecting it requires a team effort as there is a time for distinct players to rise to the occasion.
“Look, I don’t think Ashes series is won or lost on one player. And, you always need players to set up at different times,” Broad asserted.
Broad, who is the part of England’s 16-member squad, has lauded the efforts of Stokes by terming him as off-field ‘leader’.
“In my opinion, he has been a leader in the change room for the last 18 months,” Broad maintained.
The 31-year-old Nottingham-born lanky bowler Broad remarked the under investigation Stokes has been the great asset for England both with the bat and a ball.
“His competitive side… the way he puts his arm around players (and) the way he encourages players that’ll still be there if Ben Stokes – the cricketer isn’t,” Broad said.
So much so, Broad reminisced about past Ashes campaigns before setting the example of former skipper Alastair Cook and Anderson who played their part in 2010-11 for England.
“You know Alastair Cook did in 2010-11 scored record number of runs. Jimmy Anderson did in 2010-11 and got some awesome wickets,” Broad recalled.
Broad, who claimed 388 Test scalps 109 Tests at the bowling average of 28.81 summed up by saying the players are capable of delivering big as England’s has around three debutants listed in the squad.
“Ashes series are won in those little key moments and we got enough players who can set up in those times,” Broad concluded.
In 200 Test innings, Broad’s best figures with the ball came during the 2015 Ashes against Australia at Nottingham when he bagged eight for 15.
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After making his international debut in 2006 against Pakistan at Bristol, Broad further bagged 15 five-wicket haul while donning the white jersey.