Ben Stokes has decided to stop drinking alcohol while recovering from his latest injury, aiming to be in top shape for the summer in the UK. He’s set to return on Thursday for a one-off test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge in December, following a hamstring tear experienced in New Zealand.
Last year, he came back too quickly from a similar injury, but after undergoing surgery this time, his recovery has been carefully managed, helping him get back to peak condition. In a recent podcast, the 33-year-old reflected on how his perspective changed after his first major injury, questioning, “How did this happen? Did I maybe have a drink four or five nights ago?”
He then realized it was important to shift his habits. “I don’t think I’ll ever be completely calm, but I haven’t had a drink since January 2nd. It’s difficult some days to stick to my training plan, especially when you really wish you could take a break,” he said.
Stokes aims to play a comprehensive role against Zimbabwe and noted that his relationship with alcohol has evolved significantly from his youth. He recalls how a concerning incident from 2017, when a night out in Bristol led to a street brawl, was largely defined by his alcohol consumption, although he ultimately faced no legal repercussions.
Cricket and alcohol have always had a complex relationship, but Stokes emphasized the need for athletes to adapt to more professional standards. He mentioned that he can enjoy social drinks now, understanding better the complexities that come with it. “I remember times when I didn’t get why my wife Claire would be upset with me for drinking too much,” he shared, but now, things are clearer to him.
Reflecting on the past, Stokes remarked, “The stories from the 90s and 00s were something else when it came to drinking. But things have quieted down over the years. The game is incredibly demanding now, with so much more cricket on the schedule. It’s tough on your body, making it more challenging to cope with the aftereffects of a few beers after a long day.”
