Ben Stokes finds strength in family after challenging Pakistan tour

England Test captain Ben Stokes has opened up about the personal and professional struggles he faced during the recent tour of Pakistan, calling it one of the toughest periods of his career. Speaking ahead of England’s first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch, Stokes reflected on how these challenges helped him grow as a leader.  

Stokes shared with his teammates in Queenstown how unhappy he had been with his behavior during the Pakistan series. Recovering from a hamstring injury, he pushed himself to return to action, playing in the second and third Tests after nine weeks out. Despite his efforts, England lost the series 2-1, and Stokes felt his frustrations on the field affected the team.  

"I’ve been pretty honest with myself and pretty honest with Baz and the team as well, that I got so individually focused on myself over a long period of time of trying to get back from injury," Stokes said. "I actually did physically drain and ruin myself, which definitely had some kind of mental impact on me."  

The series was also marked by personal turmoil. During the second Test in Multan, Stokes’ home in England was burgled while his family was there. Although he wanted to return home, he stayed with the team at the insistence of his wife, Clare.  

Looking back, Stokes realized how his behavior had impacted those around him. "It’s made me realize that me being a captain, me being the leader of this team, I can’t take myself into that sort of area ever again – focusing on myself so much as an individual. That definitely has an impact on not only the players around me but also the group and the management around you as well."  

After returning home from Pakistan, Stokes spent time with his family, which allowed him to reflect on the experience and assess his leadership. He acknowledged the need to stay focused on the team rather than his own challenges in the future.  

"It was a realization for me that, right, okay, if I ever find myself in this situation again, I need to maybe take a step back and think about what’s best for the team," Stokes said. "I think it’s another step forward for me as a leader, as well as understanding certain things where I need to be better."  

The New Zealand tour has brought Stokes back to his birthplace of Christchurch, where most of his family still lives. Before the rest of the team arrived, Stokes visited his family early, surprising them and enjoying time together.  

"This tour is more than just cricket for me," he said. "It’s a chance to see family, catch up with family who I don’t get to see. You know, pretty much the whole of the Stokes family is in Christchurch. They’re coming down to the Test match this week."  

Stokes participated in the Mini Whakatau, a traditional Māori welcome ceremony, alongside New Zealand captain Tom Latham, adding an emotional touch to his visit.  

As England prepares for the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval on Thursday, Stokes is motivated to lead his team forward. With the challenges of the past behind him, he is focused on staying grounded and creating a positive environment for his squad.  

"It was nice to get home, relax, chill out … you know, assess Pakistan, individually, which I think should hopefully help the team go forward again," Stokes said. "It’s a great place to tour, but yeah, it’s great for me to be able to see people who I don’t get to see that often."