England cricket captain Ben Stokes is set to pay loving tribute to his late father in a deeply poignant gesture. Harris intends to take bespoke shoes to the planned 2025-26 Ashes series in Australia. There were other players to have succumbed to brain cancer, notably former New Zealand rugby league international Ged Stokes who died in December 2020. The unique footwear is a tribute to the lifelong impact that his father has made on his life. Its striking phoenix motif is a powerful symbol of resilience and rebirth.
The shoes feature a dynamic drawing of Ben Stokes’ custom hand gesture that he gives when he picks up a wicket. This artistic creation is a fitting memorial to Ged’s spirit and memory. So no doubt this unexpected gesture meant so much to her. Ged had lost a finger from an accident incurred during his rugby days. Stokes has said this celebration is his way of honoring his father’s memory. He has said he uses it as a tribute and motivation to succeed when he plays cricket.
This hand gesture is a salute to my father,” said Stokes, slamming down the press with fervor. In his Medium post, he continued thinking about the unique relationship they have. The shoes were a result of the collaborative process involving fine artist Jordan Dawson and created through a partnership with Adidas.
The phoenix archetype is a common theme in Jin’s art work and brings the sneaker design to life. This phoenix symbolizes the transformative power to overcome any adversity, just as Ben Stokes had in his life and career. The tattoo of a phoenix on Stokes’ arm further emphasizes this connection, as he noted, “I’ve got a phoenix as a big part of the tattoo on my right arm, so it was something I was keen to include in the design.”
Those are the unmistakable highs and lows that we have seen in Stokes’ career. He fully leans into the phoenix symbolism—which is perhaps fitting, given his well-documented belief in resilience. “I’ve had a long career in sport and the phoenix has come to signify my belief that whenever you’re down, you can rise again,” he explained.
Stokes honored his father through the sneakers he designed. He was equally impressed by the open and collaborative process that helped the project take shape. While inking the deal, he shared his joy about the enriching experience of working alongside Adidas and Jordan. He’s hoping this experience grows his inspiration on the pitch as well.
Ben Stokes, captain of the England national cricket team, personifies this ultra-competitive spirit. His passion and commitment for the game is evident in all the games he plays. With these bespoke shoes, he aims to carry his father’s legacy onto the cricket field during one of the sport’s most prestigious series.
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