How Do Stokes and McCullum Inspire Confidence in Players? Will Jacks Explains
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Synopsis
Will Jacks highlights how the leadership of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum creates a fearless atmosphere in the England cricket team. His unexpected recall to the Ashes squad has him excited to contribute to the team's success. With the upcoming series in Australia, Jacks reflects on the empowering environment that allows players to thrive.
Key Takeaways
- Leadership of Stokes and McCullum instills confidence in players.
- Jacks' unexpected recall for the Ashes highlights his potential.
- The importance of a supportive team environment for newcomers.
- Upcoming Ashes series presents a significant challenge for England.
- Jacks aims to fulfill any role needed by the team.
New Delhi, Sep 24 (NationPress) England all-rounder Will Jacks asserts that the guidance of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum fosters a fearless attitude within the team, empowering players to believe they can face any opponent globally.
Having participated in only two Tests for England, during the 2022 tour of Pakistan where he claimed six wickets, Jacks has made an unexpected return to the squad for this year’s five-match Ashes series in Australia. In addition to batting, he will also support the spin bowling unit alongside specialist off-spinner Shoaib Bashir.
Jacks was chosen for the Ashes ahead of contenders like Rehan Ahmed, Liam Dawson, and Jack Leach. He expressed, "The leadership group makes you feel like you can take anyone on. For someone stepping into the team for the first time, this quickly builds your confidence and helps you feel like you fit in right away. Stokes leads by example, making it easy to follow his lead. He would never ask you to do something he wouldn't do himself," Jacks shared with BBC Radio 5 Live on Wednesday.
The 26-year-old has recorded only five wickets in 74.1 overs during first-class cricket this year, though he is more frequently involved in England’s limited-overs squads. Unfortunately, Jacks will miss England’s upcoming white-ball tour to New Zealand due to a finger injury sustained while fielding in the series against South Africa earlier this month.
"Baz (McCullum) called me for a casual chat and casually mentioned it, which took me by surprise - it definitely made my day. I'm eager to fill any role the team requires. That’s what I’ve been doing in the white-ball format. It was fantastic to engage with the Test side and witness Stokes' leadership. I’m excited to be part of it again," he remarked.
The five-match Ashes series will kick off with the first Test in Perth from November 21-25. The second Test, a day-night match, is set for December 4-8 in Brisbane. Adelaide will host the third Test from December 17-21, followed by the traditional Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26-30. The series will conclude with the fifth and final Test in Sydney, scheduled for January 4-8, 2026.
Point of View
Will Jacks' insights reflect the transformative leadership styles of Stokes and McCullum. Their approach not only builds individual confidence but also strengthens team cohesion, essential for competing at the highest level. As England gears up for the Ashes, this mindset will be key in facing formidable opponents.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact do Stokes and McCullum have on player confidence?
Their leadership promotes a fearless attitude, making players feel capable of taking on any opponent.
Who is Will Jacks?
Will Jacks is an England all-rounder who has made a surprise return to the squad for the Ashes series.
What role will Jacks play in the Ashes series?
Jacks will contribute as a batsman and assist in the spin bowling department.
When does the Ashes series start?
The first Test of the Ashes series will take place in Perth from November 21-25.
How has Jacks performed in first-class cricket this year?
He has taken five wickets in 74.1 overs in first-class matches this year.
