As the highly anticipated five-Test series between England and India commences on June 20, 2025, former England captain Michael Vaughan has issued a strong message to current captain Ben Stokes, urging him to prioritize winning over mere entertainment. Vaughan's comments come amidst concerns about Stokes's lack of game time and the need for England to adopt a ruthless approach to secure victory, especially with the Ashes on the horizon.
Vaughan has been particularly vocal about Stokes's decision to forgo playing for the England Lions in their fixture against India A. He expressed surprise that Stokes, returning from injury, would not seek valuable time in the middle to hone his batting skills. Vaughan stated that he was "staggered" by the lack of time in the middle that Ben’s had as a batter. He added that most elite athletes seek match sharpness before big events. Vaughan highlighted that Stokes bowled against Zimbabwe, proving his fitness, but questioned why he wouldn't want additional batting practice against the India A side.
Vaughan drew a parallel between the current England team and Kevin Keegan's Newcastle United side from the 1990s. While Keegan's team was known for their entertaining and attacking style of play, they ultimately failed to win major trophies. Vaughan cautioned Stokes against falling into the same trap, emphasizing that winning is paramount. He stressed that England needs to avoid being remembered as the most entertaining side that never won an Ashes series. Vaughan wants to see a ruthless approach this summer and if England gets on a winning run, win every game. He also stated that he looks at all high-level sports teams and does not see a relaxed environment, but instead a high intensity, high performance environment which is sometimes tough, hard work.
Vaughan acknowledged Stokes's impressive record against India, where he has scored 972 runs at an average of 46.70 in 21 Tests, including one century and five fifties. He has also taken 40 wickets at an average of 31.17, with three five-wicket hauls. However, he reiterated that individual performances must translate into team success.
Furthermore, Vaughan emphasized the importance of Stokes's all-round abilities for England's chances of winning in Australia. He believes that England can only win in Australia if Stokes is fit and bowling. He added that without his all-round ability, the team becomes 30-40% weaker. To win in Australia, he has to be bowling and batting well.
Looking back, Vaughan noted that England lost to India last year. He pointed to England's World Cup victory in 2019 as an example of how the team adapted their approach to prioritize winning, even if it meant deviating from their usual style of play. They had to dig deep and play the old school horrible way, but they won. They are remembered as winners.
In light of the retirements of key players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the Indian Test team, and with Shubman Gill appointed as the new captain, Vaughan had suggested that India should have given the captaincy to Virat Kohli for the Test series in England. He added that Shubman Gill can be his VC for the tour. Despite these changes in the Indian side, Vaughan's focus remains firmly on England's approach and their need to secure victories in crucial series like the one against India and the upcoming Ashes.
