Adelaide, Dec 15 (NationPress) England's captain Ben Stokes has urged his team to exhibit ‘a bit of dog’ in the crucial third Ashes Test against Australia, which kicks off at the Adelaide Oval on Wednesday. This match is particularly significant for Stokes as it's the venue of his Test debut from 12 years ago, highlighting the importance of this encounter as England aims for a comeback.

Currently trailing 2-0 in the five-match series, England must break a 17-match winless streak in Australia to keep their hopes of reclaiming the Ashes alive.

“Absolutely. We don’t engage in lengthy discussions or have major visuals. We prefer genuine, impactful conversations. What needed to be said has been articulated. I've completed my discussions over the past two days. Now, it’s about demonstrating our capabilities on the field in Adelaide this week,” Stokes told the media on Monday.

“It’s about battling in every situation, understanding the requirements for your team, and consistently evaluating your opposition. Show a bit of dog; that’s what fighting means to me. Having that fighting spirit gives you the best chance,” he emphasized.

Stokes mentioned that the England team engaged in ‘meaningful conversations’ before heading to Adelaide, taking inspiration from their third Test against India at Lord’s in July, where they clinched a victory by 22 runs in a thrilling conclusion.

“That match at Lord’s embodies precisely what I'm referring to. It was a moment of collective recognition and action, which propelled our performance that day. We were in a position where perfection was essential for victory, and we achieved that.”

“The attitude and mentality during that intense situation provided us with the best chance of success. We've discussed that India game throughout this series. My part of the talking is done now. What matters is our actions on the field this week. Everyone is acutely aware of what needs to be achieved. There may be heightened expectations, but the team has responded remarkably well. What other choice do we have?” he elaborated.

Stokes also commented on the exclusion of Shoaib Bashir from England’s lineup for the Adelaide Test, confirming that all-rounder Will Jacks retains his spot, while Josh Tongue replaces seamer Gus Atkinson.

“I wouldn’t attribute this to Bash in any way. The key point is that we’re 2-0 down. We must win the next three matches. We believe having Jacksy at number eight strengthens our batting lineup, should we need to go that route. He’s fully capable of fulfilling that role with the ball when called upon,” he stated.