🏏 Ben Stokes Opens Up on Quitting Alcohol to Aid Recovery from Hamstring Injury

England Test captain prioritizes fitness as he eyes summer comeback

England Test captain Ben Stokes has revealed a significant personal decision that could shape the next phase of his cricketing journey. In a candid interview, the 33-year-old all-rounder shared that he gave up alcohol in January to support his recovery from a torn hamstring, adding to a growing list of injuries that have tested his resilience and threatened his longevity in the game.

🏥 A Turn in Lifestyle After Injury Setback

Stokes suffered the injury during the third Test against New Zealand in December 2024, which required surgical intervention. Since then, he has been undergoing rehabilitation and has yet to return to action for Durham in the ongoing County Championship season.

With England’s international summer set to begin on 22 May against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, Stokes is hoping that his renewed lifestyle discipline will help him bounce back stronger.

🎙️ A Moment of Realization

Speaking on a recent podcast, Stokes opened up about the internal reflection that led to his decision to stop drinking:

“After my first major injury… I was thinking, ‘How has this happened?’ Then I remembered we did have a bit of a drink four or five nights ago — could that have played a part?”

This moment of doubt was a turning point, prompting the England captain to reevaluate his habits and make a conscious lifestyle change.

🚫 A New Approach to Alcohol

While Stokes clarified that he hasn’t ruled out alcohol completely, he emphasized that his relationship with it has become far healthier and more balanced.

“I need to start changing what I do,” he admitted. “I haven’t touched a drop since January.”

He noted that he’s moved past the “all-or-nothing” mindset that dominated his early career, now exercising greater control and maturity in his approach to personal well-being.

🔄 Changing Times in Cricket Culture

Stokes also highlighted the broader evolution of cricket’s drinking culture, contrasting the modern game’s rigorous schedules and fitness standards with the more relaxed, party-filled eras of the ’90s and early 2000s.

“There’s so much more cricket now… the body just can’t withstand all that—even without a couple of beers at the end of the day.”

His comments reflect a growing awareness among elite cricketers about the importance of rest, recovery, and discipline amidst a jam-packed international calendar.

England Test captain Ben Stokes quits drinking to aid injury recovery

🔁 Focused on Rehabilitation and Return

In addition to his hamstring surgery, Stokes also underwent knee surgery in 2023, making this period of rehab crucial for both his personal health and England’s Test aspirations. The skipper has been sharing snippets of his training progress online, reaffirming his dedication to returning to peak condition.

“I haven’t got any interest in stopping… I’ll keep going as long as I possibly can,” Stokes affirmed.

🕒 Eyes on Trent Bridge and Beyond

As the countdown to England’s summer Test series begins, fans and teammates alike will be hoping that Stokes’ commitment to physical and mental discipline translates into match-winning performances on the field. His story serves as a reminder of the evolving demands of modern cricket — and the sacrifices elite players must make to stay at the top of their game.

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🏏 Ben Stokes Opens Up on Quitting Alcohol.