Several England players have come under severe scrutiny for an alleged stag do in Noosa between the second and third Ashes Tests.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is currently carrying out investigation of the English team's drinking claims after a video of Ben Duckett went viral, appearing to show intoxication.
Stokes was quick to dismiss the 'stag do' rumours, saying his main concern is the 'welfare' of his teammates.
“How I handle this moment right now is the most important thing to me. The welfare of everyone in there and probably some certain individuals as well is the most important thing to me right now as England captain," Stokes told reporters at a press conference before the Boxing Day Test.
“This kind of stuff is very, I don't know if close to me is the right wording, but something that I have first hand experience of how it can affect people. And as I said, my role as England captain is to protect my players as much as I possibly can.
“We have a goal still to try and achieve out here on this trip. It's not gone anywhere near to plan whatsoever," he said.
Stokes continued, “Looking after my players is one of the main things that I need to get out of this because we need to go out there and win two games of cricket.
“I know how this kind of stuff can affect people and as I said, I will always protect my players as much as I possibly can.
“Right here right now, that is my main job as England captain is to ensure that they know that they have my backing because the most important thing to me, sitting here right now, is a group of players who I can get into a best possible state to go out there and try and perform for this country and the remaining of this trip.”
Stokes refused to entertain the question when asked whether his players had done anything wrong in Noosa. “I've just answered everything there. I've just said I will always continue to support my players,” he stated.
“I have a responsibility as captain out on the field to try and win games of cricket but in moments like these I have that other responsibility of making sure that I will always protect my players in a moment where I feel that is necessary," he further remarked.
(With IANS Inputs)