Ben Stokes unleashes hell on Jofra Archer; England pacer blanks out, consoled by Ben Duckett: ‘He’s under fire’

A heated exchange between England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Jofra Archer during Day 2 of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide underscored the intense pressure facing the English team. The incident occurred as Australia continued their innings at 326/8, with Mitchell Starc putting England's bowlers under pressure.

Archer's strategy of bowling short-pitched deliveries to the tail-enders, instead of targeting the stumps, allowed Starc to score a half-century. A video clip circulating on social media appears to show Stokes criticizing Archer’s approach. While the clip has no audio, lip readers suggest Stokes said to Archer, “Mate, don’t complain about field placings when you bowl poorly. Bowl on the stumps.” Mark Waugh described the incident as a breakdown in communication regarding field placements and bowling tactics.

Archer responded by bowling a fuller delivery that bowled Starc out for 54. Stokes reacted with a celebratory gesture, while Archer appeared relieved. After a short pause, Archer acknowledged Stokes’ outstretched hand, and the two later shared a high-five. Archer concluded the innings with figures of 5 for 53, his first five-wicket haul in a Test match since 2019.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist commented that Stokes seemed to be pushing his team to instill belief under significant pressure. Ricky Ponting observed the emotional nature of the exchange, noting Archer’s frustration and suggesting Stokes might have been trying to knock some sense into the bowler.

The incident took place in challenging conditions, with temperatures reaching 40°C in Adelaide. England's batting coach, Marcus Trescothick, revealed that Stokes was struggling with cramping and fluid intake after play. Despite the tension, Stokes and Archer displayed a united front later in the day, adding 45 runs for the ninth wicket, providing England with some hope in a crucial Test match.

At the end of Day 2, England were 213/8, trailing by 158 runs, with Australia in a strong position to retain the Ashes.