England's Will Jacks Credits Stokes McCullum Leadership Ahead Ashes Australia

England all-rounder Will Jacks has credited captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum for fostering a fearless and confident mindset within the England cricket squad ahead of the 2025 Ashes series in Australia. Despite having only played two Tests in 2022 and taking just five wickets in first-class cricket this year, Jacks earned a surprise recall to the Ashes squad, selected ahead of other spinners like Rehan Ahmed, Liam Dawson, and Jack Leach. Jacks highlighted Stokes' leadership by example, noting that Stokes would never ask players to do anything he himself would not do, which builds trust and confidence among team members. Jacks expressed enthusiasm about playing whatever role the team needs, appreciating the positive impact of the leadership group that makes new players feel they belong immediately. He will miss the preceding white-ball tour to New Zealand due to a finger injury but looks forward to contributing in the Ashes series starting in November 2025. The Ashes series will consist of five Tests across various Australian venues, beginning in Perth and concluding in Melbourne.