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Ben Stokes quits alcohol during injury rehab to stay fit for India series

Ben Stokes quits alcohol during injury rehab to stay fit for India series

India Today19-05-2025
England Test captain Ben Stokes has revealed that he gave up alcohol at the start of 2025 to stay fit for a busy cricketing summer that includes Test series against India and Australia. Speaking on the Untapped podcast, Stokes shared that his decision was part of a broader commitment to his physical recovery and long-term health as he works his way back from a hamstring injury.advertisementThe all-rounder has been battling a recurring left hamstring issue that began during The Hundred in August. The injury resurfaced during England's Test against New Zealand in Hamilton, ultimately leading to surgery in December. It forced him to miss the Sri Lanka Tests and affected his readiness for the Pakistan series later in the year. With a five-match home series against India starting June 11 and the Ashes following soon after, Stokes has taken a disciplined approach to ensure he's fully fit. Quitting alcohol, he explained, was a key step in managing his fitness and preparing his body for the physical demands of back-to-back elite-level series."After my first major injury, I remember the shock of it and after the initial adrenaline had stopped, I was thinking, 'How has this happened?. (I thought) 'We did have a bit of a drink four or five nights ago, could that have played a part?' It wouldn't have helped. Then I was like, 'OK, I need to start changing what I do'," Stokes told the Untapped podcast.advertisement"I don't think I'll ever be completely sober, but I've not had a drink since January 2... I said to myself: 'Not until I finish my injury rehab and get back on the field'," he added.His personal lifestyle change also aligns with his recent partnership with CleanCo, a non-alcoholic spirits company, where he has signed on as both investor and brand partner — a move that reflects his new off-field priorities.Stokes is expected to return to action in England's home season opener — a one-off Test against Zimbabwe — before leading the team against India. With two major assignments ahead, his presence will be vital for England's campaign across the summer.
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