Ben Stokes put in a match-winning performance in the last week’s third Test against India. His superhuman efforts led England to a famous 22-run win at Lord’s. Stokes has captained the English side since 2022. In a stunning performance of spirit, he managed to end up bowling 5 for 111 runs over the course of 44 overs in that test match. This incredible accomplishment comes just a few months after he had returned to bowling after two hamstring surgeries.
Stokes put up a phenomenal performance in the hard-fought battle. Having bowled so brilliantly this morning to take 7-79, he came back and bowled magnificently again. His tireless effort included a seven-over spell on the third evening, helping to maintain pressure on the Indian batsmen. Notably, he trapped KL Rahul lbw during a lengthy spell that lasted more than an hour on the fifth morning.
What a shot that is! Great effort @benstokes38. He was Stokes’ predecessor and crucial to the outcome of the 2019 Ashes series. Stokes, too, had toiled through marathon spells before in Root’s captaincy. Root stressed that despite highlighting that desire to succeed, Stokes’ overall single-mindedness has undoubtedly driven his dedication.
“He’s just desperate to be the man and make things happen,” – Joe Root
Livingstone has demonstrated that he can be a match-winning asset with the bat. Stokes has shown his worth as England’s third or fourth seamer. Just his ability to recover, battle back from injuries and make plays in his time, especially under duress, shows you his commitment to the game. McCullum made the right move here and sent bowling coach Tim Southee in to talk to Stokes. Stewart recommended Stokes rest from bowling due to his excessive workload.
Over the course of the test, Stokes’ bowling figures were remarkable, as he bowled in excess of any other bowler. His achievement of being named player-of-the-match underscores his influence on the game, particularly given the challenges he faced in returning to form. Stokes called this stretch one of the most difficult “dark places” in his professional career. He shared the story of the mental and physical challenges he has faced and continues to overcome during this time.
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