The dressing room of the England cricket team was filled with devastation and shattered spirits following their agonizing two-wicket loss to Australia in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston, according to captain Ben Stokes.
In a captivating conclusion to the first Test, the visitors orchestrated a remarkable comeback on the dramatic final day, snatching an improbable victory from England's grasp. Despite initially holding a commanding position, Australia's skipper Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon masterminded a sensational 55-run partnership for the ninth wicket, leaving England in disbelief.
"We always have a burning desire to win. It's absolutely devastating that we came out on the losing side. The players in the dressing room are completely shattered, especially Robbo and Broady (Ollie Robinson and Stuart Broad) who displayed incredible resilience," Stokes expressed, as quoted by BBC.
Stokes further emphasized that England would not alter their aggressive approach, which has led them to 11 wins in their previous 13 Tests, for the remainder of the five-match series.
"I won't change my style of play just because it's the Ashes," he affirmed.
One contentious aspect of England's attacking strategy was their declaration on day one with eight wickets down, subjecting Australia's openers to a challenging mini-session on Friday evening, which they successfully negotiated.
However, the subsequent defeat marks the second occasion in the last three Tests where England has suffered a loss in a match they declared in.
"I believed that was the moment to seize the initiative. Who knows, we could have gained an additional 40 runs or lost two wickets in two balls. I'm not a captain who dwells on 'what ifs'," Stokes explained.
"For the majority of the game, we were in control, but somehow the result slipped away. We are devastated, but that's the nature of sport. It's an emotional rollercoaster," the 32-year-old added.
Despite the heartbreak, Stokes urged fans to continue supporting the team as they strive to rebound in the remaining four Tests of the series.
"We have four more games ahead of us. Stay with us and witness the passion and determination we bring to the game we love," Stokes concluded.