Ben Stokes made a sensational comeback to competitive cricket, claiming six wickets on the first day of England’s Ashes warm-up match against England Lions in Perth on Thursday.

The star all-rounder, who hadn’t played since July due to a shoulder injury, bowled 16 overs across three spells and finished with impressive figures of 6-52. His return is a significant boost for England as they prepare for the Ashes series.

The Ashes series between Australia and England for the 2025-26 season is scheduled to begin on November 21, with the first Test to be played at Optus Stadium in Perth.

He dismissed Lions captain Tom Haines with the fifth ball he bowled. He also removed Jacob Bethell (2), Will Jacks (84), Jordan Cox (53), Tom Lawes (0) and Rehan Ahmed (16).

This Ashes will be a crucial Test

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