Ben Stokes suffered his hamstring injury during the third Test against New Zealand in December England Test captain Ben Stokes says he gave up drinking alcohol at the start of the year in the hope the abstinence would help with his recovery from injury. Stokes, 33, hadsurgery on his left hamstringin December after suffering a tear during the third Test against New Zealand. He was initially ruled out for at least three months but has not yet featured for Durham in the County Championship. England's international summer begins with a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge from 22 May. All-rounder Stokes sustained a similar injury during The Hundred last summer, but he said that he has changed his approach to rehabilitation this time, which included reflection on his relationship with alcohol. "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?'" Stokes told the Untapped podcast, hosted by Spencer Matthews. "[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'." As a result, Stokes said he has not had an alcoholic drink since the beginning of January. He added that it is unlikely that he will ever give up alcohol entirely but that he has learned to manage his behaviour with it. He said that when he was younger, his drinking habits were "all or nothing", whereas he is now able to manage having "a social drink". Stokes was foundnot guilty of affrayin a high-profile trial in 2018, after being involved in a fight outside a nightclub in Bristol. He told the court that he had been drinking but was not drunk. In his podcast interview, Stokes described the differences in cricket's drinking culture in today's professional era compared with the past. "In the 90s and 00s, there were unbelievable stories [about drinking]. It's definitely settled down a lot over the years," Stokes said. "The game is more demanding on the body than it was then. "There's so much more cricket, there's so much more in the schedule that it's just impossible for the body to be able to withstand all of that anyway - even without the downsides of what a couple of beers at the end of the day can do to you for the next day." Stokes' recent injury record - which also included knee surgery at the end of 2023 - has led to questions surrounding his future and his ability to play as an all-rounder in England's Test side. But he said he has been fully committed to this latest strict rehabilitation programme and has "no interest in stopping". In recent weeks, Stokes has posted footage on social media that has showed him bowling in training with Durham, and he hopes to play a full role against Zimbabwe. "I think the day I wake up and can't be bothered to do the training programme, that is getting towards the time you don't really want it any more," he said. "But I haven't got any interest in stopping. "It's just getting harder to do everything, hence why now I feel like I have to work so much harder away from the field, in the gym and all that kind of stuff to just give me the best chance of being out there to perform. "But I'll keep going as long as I possibly can."
Stokes gave up alcohol for latest injury recovery
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Ben Stokes Abstains from Alcohol to Aid Recovery from Injury"
Bbc News
7.8
TruthLens AI Summary
Ben Stokes, the England Test captain, has taken significant steps in his recovery from a hamstring injury, which he sustained during the third Test against New Zealand in December. Following surgery on his left hamstring, Stokes was initially expected to be sidelined for at least three months. However, he has not yet returned to play for Durham in the County Championship. In a bid to enhance his rehabilitation process, Stokes has abstained from alcohol since the beginning of January. He reflected on his previous experiences with injury and how his relationship with alcohol may have contributed to his recovery challenges. Stokes emphasized the importance of managing his behavior around drinking, stating that while he does not intend to quit alcohol entirely, he has shifted from an all-or-nothing approach to a more moderated consumption style. This change comes after he recalled how his drinking habits affected him during his recovery from previous injuries, prompting him to adopt a more disciplined lifestyle.
In addition to his personal transformation regarding alcohol, Stokes discussed the evolution of cricket's drinking culture, noting that the demands of modern cricket have changed significantly compared to past decades. He pointed out that the increased intensity and frequency of matches make it difficult for players to recover adequately if they indulge in drinking. Stokes has faced scrutiny over his injury history, which includes knee surgery at the end of 2023, raising questions about his future as an all-rounder for England. Nevertheless, he remains committed to his rehabilitation program and is determined to return to the field. Stokes has shared training footage on social media, demonstrating his efforts to regain fitness in preparation for the upcoming Test against Zimbabwe. He expressed his dedication to the sport, stating that he will continue to work hard to ensure he can perform at his best, as long as he remains motivated to train and compete.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article provides an insight into Ben Stokes' decision to abstain from alcohol during his recovery from a hamstring injury. It highlights his personal reflections on how his drinking habits may have impacted his previous injuries and his determination to approach rehabilitation differently this time. The context of professional sports, particularly cricket, and its cultural relationship with alcohol is also touched upon, making the piece relevant for both sports enthusiasts and those interested in athlete well-being.
Personal Transformation and Injury Recovery
Stokes' narrative serves as a personal transformation story. By giving up alcohol, he aims to enhance his recovery process and prevent further injuries. His previous experiences with injuries and subsequent reflections show a mature understanding of how lifestyle choices affect athletic performance. This aspect of the article suggests that the intention behind publishing this news is to promote a healthier lifestyle among athletes, encouraging them to consider their habits critically.
Cultural Commentary on Alcohol in Sports
The mention of cricket's evolving drinking culture indicates a broader societal shift. Stokes contrasts the past drinking habits of cricketers with the current environment, suggesting a movement towards responsibility and professionalism. This commentary may appeal to those who advocate for positive changes in sports culture, possibly aiming to inspire a shift in how athletes approach their health and wellness.
Public Perception and Support
The article could foster a supportive perception of Stokes within the sporting community and among fans. His vulnerability in discussing personal struggles with alcohol resonates with many, potentially appealing to individuals who have faced similar challenges. The intent may be to cultivate a sense of empathy and understanding from the public, positioning Stokes as a role model for resilience and self-improvement.
Potential Omissions and Broader Implications
While the article primarily focuses on Stokes' decision and its immediate impact on his career, it may not fully explore underlying issues related to alcohol use in sports, such as peer pressure or mental health challenges. By highlighting Stokes' story without broader context, there could be a risk of oversimplifying complex issues. This could lead some readers to overlook the systemic factors at play in athletes' lives.
Reliability and Manipulative Elements
The article appears to be credible as it shares Stokes' own words and reflections. However, it does lean towards a narrative that promotes positive change without addressing potential negative consequences of alcohol abstinence, such as social isolation or increased pressure to conform to new behaviors. The manipulation, if present, could stem from an overly optimistic portrayal of Stokes' journey, which may inadvertently ignore the complexities surrounding addiction and recovery.
Community Response and Economic Impact
The news could resonate well with communities that support healthy living and personal accountability. It may influence discussions around athlete welfare and recovery programs, possibly prompting sponsorships or initiatives aimed at supporting athletes in their personal challenges. Economically, heightened interest in athlete health could lead to increased investment in wellness programs within sports organizations.
Overall, the article, while focused on Stokes, opens up discussions on broader themes within sports culture and personal responsibility, potentially impacting how athletes are perceived and supported in their journeys.