Ben Stokes says no to alcohol to stay fit for Test series vs India

Widely regarded as England's all-time best amongst all-rounders, 33-year-old Ben Stokes has been out of action ever since December 2024. The test skipper has been in recovery ever since and is expected to return for the one-off test against Zimbabwe set to commence on May 22.

Stokes' recovery post-surgery has nearly concluded, and the veteran hopes to play a significant role against Zimbabwe in the test to come. Speaking to the Untapped podcast, Stokes admitted that recovering from injuries have become significantly more challenging for him, and that he has to put in so much effort just to be in a position that allows him to give his best for the team. The player, after the 2023 Indian Premier League season, also opted out of successive auctions to prolong his Test career.

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"After my first major injury, I remember the shock of it, after the initial adrenaline had stopped, thinking: ‘How has this happened? We did have a bit of a drink four or five nights ago, could that have played a part? It wouldn’t have helped", said Stokes.


Reflecting on what changed in his attitude towards drinking, the Englishman added, "OK, I need to start changing what I do.’ I don’t think I’ll ever be completely sober but I’ve not had a drink since 2 January. I said to myself: ‘Not until I finish my injury rehab and get back on the field.’ I think the day I wake up and can’t be bothered to do the training programme is getting towards that time you don’t really want it any more. But I haven’t got any interest in stopping.



While Stokes later clarified that he has no plans on giving up drinking completely, it is imperative that he abstains form the same until he has fully recovered and able to perform at the peak of his abilities. The player has also signed with an alcohol-free spirits brand called CleanCo, and admitted that his urge to drink nowadays is rather moderate.


Stokes first injured himself at the hundred, after which he tore his hamstring, needing surgery in the tour of New Zealand in December.