In Australia, Ben Stokes expressed the England cricket team's disappointment following a heavy two-day defeat in the first Ashes Test held in Perth. The match, which took place last week, left fans both in the UK and those who traveled to Australia disheartened, as England was unable to maintain a strong position at lunch on day two, ultimately losing the match within a few hours. The defeat came under scrutiny with critics questioning the team's preparations, shot selections, and the absence of several senior players from a crucial warm-up match in Canberra. Stokes faced a barrage of criticism, which he believes may have been excessive, particularly in light of remarks from former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson, who labeled the team as "arrogant" in his columns. Stokes, however, prefers to be called "rubbish" rather than arrogant and aims to channel the team’s collective pain into a determination to succeed in the remaining matches of the series. He acknowledged the support from their fanbase, indicating the shared desire for victory. With four remaining matches in the Ashes series, Stokes highlighted the necessity of bouncing back after the first loss. He reassured fans that despite the challenges the team faces, their commitment remains resolute. Stokes emphasized that it is a results-oriented environment, where wins are paramount, expressing that everyone—players and supporters alike—share a mutual longing for success. The team is focused on regrouping and aiming to restore pride in the upcoming fixtures. Reflecting on the team's character, Stokes noted they understand the disappointment from fans and are equally desperate to win, an aspiration that has been ingrained in their attitude since the beginning of the Ashes preparation. As the players engage in intensive training sessions ahead of the second Test, the atmosphere in the camp is filled with determination to correct the previous errors and deliver a strong performance that can shift the series dynamics in their favor.