Ashes 2021-22: It Is Not Impossible To Beat Australia At Gabba As They Lost To India, Says Jos Buttler

The Ashes 2021-22 is set to commence on December 8 at the Gabba in Brisbane. Australia are the current holders of Ashes after they drew 2-2 in 2019 in England to retain the urn. Australia had blanked England 4-0 in the 2017/18 series at home.

Without any doubt, the final Test between India and Australia will be remembered as one of the most enticing Test matches in history.

Team India won the nail-biting clash by three wickets as they chased 329 led by a sparkling knock by Rishabh Pant. Interestingly, it was the first defeat for the Australians at the Gabba in 33 years.

However, England have won just four of the 21 Test matches they have played at the Gabba, with their last win on this venue came in 1986.

Australia obviously lost to India recently at the Gabba: Jos Buttler

England’s vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler will take confidence from India’s win against Australia. Buttler feels that it will be possible for his side to beat their rivals in Brisbane.

“Any time you come and play in Australia as an England team it’s a huge challenge, history tells you that. That makes it exciting. Australia tend to play well here but they obviously lost to India recently at this venue, which proves it’s not impossible to beat them here,” Butler said in the press conference ahead of the first Test.

“We know to be able to do that we have to perform close to our best as a side. We focus a lot on ourselves – the opposition are a fantastic team – but we know if we bring our A-game we will be there or thereabouts,” Buttler added.

Ben Stokes brings so much to the team with his skillset: Jos Buttler

England all-rounder Ben Stokes will make a comeback in the game after a four-month hiatus due to his mental health issues and also recover from a finger injury he sustained during IPL 2021.

Buttler said Stokes’ all-round abilities will be a big advantage for England in the Ashes and it also boosted the morale of the team.

“He (Ben Stokes) looks fit, strong, he’s hitting the ball well, he’s bowling well. A massive plus for us obviously as a side with Ben being available to play. He brings so much to the team with his skillset on the field, and it’s great to have him back in the ranks, it’s a big lift for everyone in the dressing room,” Buttler said.

England Test captain Joe Root said that there will be many expectations from Stokes given his record against Australia in the past.

Also Read: Ashes 2021-22: There Will Be An Element Of Managing Expectations From Ben Stokes: Joe Root