England captain Ben Stokes has carried his team through another disappointing Ashes series in Australia, with the tourists trailing 3-1 heading into the final Test at Sydney. Despite individual brilliance from their skipper, England’s inability to win games as a collective unit has sparked debate about whether Stokes is indeed “a lion leading lambs.”

The all-rounder has been honest about the toll this tour has taken on him. “No doubt it’s been tough,” Stokes admitted. When you put on the pressure of trying to perform for your country in a huge series, plus all of the other stuff that comes with a tour of Australia, it’s been a tough one.

His frustration has been evident throughout the series. There were howls to the heavens when he was dismissed in both Brisbane and Adelaide. He delivered an emotional press conference on Christmas Eve in Melbourne following the Ben Duckett incident. The captain has visibly carried the weight of his team’s struggles.

Time for Others to Step Up
While Stokes has led from the front, his teammates have largely failed to match his intensity. The captain himself has urged his players not to be “insular” about their positions heading into the Sydney Test. “As soon as someone starts thinking about their own performances, it becomes quite easy to see through,” he warned.

Harry Brook showed glimpses of the required approach at Melbourne, becoming the only batter on either side to score over 50 runs across both innings. His aggressive mindset proved effective on a difficult surface. However, England needs more players to follow this blueprint.

The bowling attack has been particularly concerning. With Mark Wood’s career likely at its end and Gus Atkinson injured, Matthew Potts is set for his Ashes debut. Mitchell Starc’s 26 wickets at 17.42 for Australiahighlights the gulf between the two bowling units.

Looking Beyond Sydney
Despite the series defeat, Stokes remains committed to his role and has backed his coach, Brendon McCullum, to continue. “I can’t see there being someone else who could take this team from where we are now to even bigger heights,” the captain stated.

The final Test offers England’s players a chance to prove they deserve to stand alongside their captain. With World Test Championship points at stake and pride on the line, it’s time for the lambs to show they can roar.

As England prepares for Sydney, one thing is clear – Ben Stokes cannot win matches alone. His teammates must rise to the occasion, not just for this Test, but for the future of English cricket. The lion has done his part; now it’s time for the rest of the pride to follow.