In his almost decade-long Test profession, Moeen Ali performed below three totally different captains — Alastair Cook, Joe Root and Ben Stokes. Having witnessed England’s cricketing metamorphosis up shut, the former all-rounder has no hesitation in admitting that ‘full-on leader’ Stokes has been in a position to deliver the best out of his gamers as he leads by instance.
“He’s a full-on leader who always leads from the front. Whatever he asks of the team, he does himself first — whether it’s being aggressive or playing a certain way — and everyone follows,” Moeen informed The Hindu in an unique chat.
“That’s what people love about him in the dressing room, including senior players like Joe Root and Jimmy Anderson, who have been there longer than him. It is love for his captaincy and commitment that make him stand out as captain…”
Moving on from its conventional method, England has modified the template of Test cricket with ‘Bazball’, and Stokes’ fearless management has been at its core. Having performed with him for lengthy, Moeen believes that backing the gamers to the hilt has been Stokes’ largest energy.
“Stokes has performed a large position in the crew. His influence on the means they play has been big — even higher than after I was nonetheless taking part in. They’ve had many extra wins in a shorter interval. Both Stokes and (Brendon)
McCullum have recognized gamers who can rating runs at this degree and deal with differing types of bowling,”
Moeen mentioned.
“From the start, Stokesy knew exactly what he wanted as captain. Having played in sides that struggled over the years, he had a clear vision and stuck to it, backing himself and his method. He’s especially good with younger players, giving them the freedom to play their natural game…”
Since 2020, Stokes has led England in 37 Tests, of which it received 22, misplaced 13 and drew one.
