What a summer it has been for cricket. Ben Stokes has quite literally been England’s best seamer on numerous occasions, releasing special performances to fans and analysts like Netflix releases bingeable shows. However, during the recent Test series against India, Stokes has taken 16 wickets, the most of any player. This accomplishment speaks to his development from a true fourth seamer. During these past eight years, he has gained a depth of understanding with every performance. Though at the fourth Test, at Old Trafford, his personal journey had come to a high water mark.
The fourth Test on Day two, you knew who was in control as Stokes stalked off the pitch. Clutching the match ball, he underlined his importance in a leading role within England’s spearhead bowling attack. Like every great athletic achievement, though, this moment was more than just a flash of skill. It was eight months of dedication and preparing for this shot. Stokes relied on an aura built through hard work and consistent performance, enabling him to inspire confidence in his teammates and supporters.
The last eight years have turned Stokes from a raw prospect into the driving force behind an England side bristling with confidence and passion. His overall speed during this period registered an eye-popping 84.2 mph, which is the fastest he’s been since the 2019 season. These numbers speak to his physical ability, but perhaps more importantly, to his tactical mindset when bowling. He has consistently bowled 30% of his deliveries on a good line and length over the series. It’s his new personal best, showing just how much he’s developed as a bowler.
Stokes not only wants to build up his eye-popping statistics, but he achieved a thrilling goal. His five wickets in an innings of a Test were a first since September 2017. This is no exaggeration—the man bowled 129 blistering overs in the series. That ended up being his busiest contest of the season so far. His poise in the pocket, ability to perform under pressure and still contribute when times get tough, says a lot about his character.
As he looked ahead to this series, Stokes really took to the training ground. In March, he was the one jogging between cones, wearing a tuque and tights. His commitment to his craft and preparation most definitely did all those things. Now he has reestablished a place at the forefront of England’s bowling attack. His workman-like demeanor has truly resonated with his teammates. Zak Crawley drew parallels between Stokes’ performances now and when he first burst onto the scene, showcasing the all-rounder’s broad repertoire of contributions.
Stokes was inspired by a legacy of what he’d done successfully. Then he rewatched tape of his match-winning five-over spell against South Africa at Cape Town in 2020. This moment of reflection was a catalyst for his drive. It reinforced his faith in his talents to affect change at key points in time.
Beyond the graphs and the awards lies a man who carries his symbols of resilience and rebirth. A colorful phoenix tattoo sprawled across his right arm symbolizes his path through personal and professional adversity to success in the world of competitive skateboarding. Instead, it stands in stark contrast as a reminder of his success in overcoming that adversity and coming out on the other side stronger.
As England fans hope for better fortunes in the future, they can only hold on to Stokes’ level-headedness and steadfast commitment in-game. He’s had a great transition from young cricketer to great bowler. This transformation is evident with each wicket he takes and each game he plays a role in.
Leave a Reply