England players’ desire must not be questioned, says Stokes

LONDON: England players deserve criticism for poor performances but questioning the team’s desire is uncalled for, vice-captain Ben Stokes has said ahead of the third of the four-Test series against South Africa at The Oval on Thursday (today).

“For anyone to question our fight or desire I think is wrong. They should know how much it means to play for England — how much to wear the Three Lions on your chest,” Stokes told reporters.

“We have to take criticism on performances which we are understanding of, but (questioning our) desire is too much.”The last time these two sides played a Test at the Oval was in July 2012, when South Africa came out on top by an innings and 12 runs.