Ben Stokes goes alcohol-free for India series and Ashes prep / © BBC
After the injury setback that sidelined him for five months, England Test captain Ben Stokes has revealed he gave up alcohol on January 2, 2025, to aid his recovery and improve his fitness ahead of a crucial season. Stokes sustained a left hamstring injury during The Hundred in August 2024, which later resurfaced during England’s New Zealand series. Following surgery in December, the all-rounder decided to abstain from drinking until he completed rehabilitation and returned to play.
Stokes shared on the Untapped podcast that the injury came as a shock, prompting him to reflect on lifestyle choices. He acknowledged the possibility that drinking could have influenced his physical state. Now fully focused on his fitness, the 33-year-old admitted it takes increased effort off the field to stay at peak performance.
Stokes is set to return for England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge starting May 11, marking a critical preparation ahead of the five-match Test series against India in June. That series kicks off the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle. With England aiming to redeem their 1-4 loss in India last year and a tough Ashes tour later in the year, Stokes’ leadership and fitness will be pivotal.