Ben Stokes Faces ICC Punishment After Heated Incident in Fifth Ashes Test

Ben Stokes could face punishment for a heated incident with Marnus Labuschagne at the conclusion of day two of the final Ashes test in Sydney.

It has been an extremely disappointing trip down under for England, losing the first three tests to ensure Australia won the Ashes after retaining the trophy in 2023.

Stokes' side appeared to turn a corner during the Boxing day test in Melbourne, when they secured their first victory in Australia since 2011.

England carried that momentum into the final test, but a poor bowling display leaves the Aussies 166 for two ahead of day three down under.

Despite a second win still very much on the cards, England captain Stokes let his frustrations get the better of him after Labuschagne appeared to suggest play should end early due to bad light.

Stokes initially walked off and appeared to say 'shut the f*** up.' to the Aussie.

However, Labuschagne's response caused Stokes to turn back around and share more words with the batsman and wrap his arm around his shoulder and neck.

Things got pretty heated 👀#Ashes pic.twitter.com/UHum32WUH0

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2026

Speaking after the close of play, Australian batter Michael Neser, commented on the incident that led to the altercation.

“He [Labuschagne] has a knack … he’s such a strong competitor and can get under your skin. It’s just Marnus for you," he explained.

Stokes could be punished for Labuschagne incident

Stokes appeared to get the last laugh after taking Labuschagne's wicket moments later, however, the three lions skipper could yet face consequences for his actions.

Under Article 2.12 of the ICC's Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, it states that any inappropriate contact with the opposition can be punished.

Page 12 of the ICC code reads: "Any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited in cricket. Without limitation, Players will breach this regulation if they deliberately, recklessly and/or negligently walk or run into or shoulder another Player or Umpire."

However, Stokes could end up being fortunate as the document also states the following factors are considered when assessing the seriousness of the breach: "The context of the particular situation, including, without limitation, whether the contact was deliberate (i.e. intentional), reckless, negligent, and/or avoidable; the force of the contact; any resulting injury to the person with whom contact was made; and the person with whom contact was made."

The final test will continue in Sydney tonight, as Stokes and England look to make it two victories in a row.