Ben Stokes Sets Record with Fastest Half-Century in England’s Test Victory Over West Indies
England’s captain, Ben Stokes, delivered a record-breaking performance with the fastest half-century for his country in Test cricket, leading his team to a dominant victory over the West Indies. England secured a clean sweep in the three-match series with a convincing win at Edgbaston.
On a memorable Sunday, Stokes reached his fifty in just 24 balls as England chased down a target of 82 runs in a mere 7.2 overs. His explosive innings included nine fours and two sixes, finishing unbeaten on 57 from 28 balls. Opening the batting with Ben Duckett, who scored 25 off 16 balls with four boundaries, Stokes attacked from the outset. He hit two fours off Alzarri Joseph in the first over and continued his aggressive approach against Jayden Seales in the following over.
Stokes’ rapid fifty was the fastest ever by an Englishman in Test cricket and the third-fastest in the history of the game. The record for the fastest Test half-century is held by Pakistan’s Misbah-ul-Haq, who achieved the feat in 21 balls against Australia in 2014.
The West Indies had opted to bat first after winning the toss. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite led the way with a solid 61 off 86 balls, supported by Jason Holder’s 59 from 112 balls and Joshua Da Silva’s 49 from 99 balls. Despite these contributions, the team was bowled out for 282, with Gus Atkinson and Chris Woakes being the standout bowlers for England, taking four and three wickets respectively.
In response, England faced early challenges, slipping to 54/5. However, a crucial partnership between Joe Root and Stokes helped stabilize the innings. Root scored 87 off 124 balls, while Stokes contributed 54 off 69 balls. Jamie Smith, with a near-century of 95 off 109 balls, and Woakes, who added 62 off 78 balls, further solidified England’s position, allowing them to surpass the West Indies’ total with a score of 376, gaining a lead of 94 runs. Alzarri Joseph was the pick of the West Indies bowlers, claiming four wickets for 122 runs.
In their second innings, the West Indies struggled significantly, managing only 175 runs. Mikyle Louis and Kavem Hodge were the only notable scorers with 57 and 55 runs respectively. England’s bowlers, led by Mark Wood who took five wickets for just 40 runs in a devastating spell, dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, setting England a modest target of 82 runs.
The quick chase by England ensured their comprehensive victory and series whitewash. Stokes’ exceptional form and leadership were pivotal throughout the series, and his record-breaking half-century was the highlight of the final match.
Apart from the headline performance by Stokes, the match saw significant contributions from other players as well. England’s bowling attack, especially Mark Wood and Gus Atkinson, consistently troubled the West Indies batsmen. Similarly, the batting lineup, despite early setbacks, showcased resilience and depth, particularly through partnerships that turned the tide in England’s favor.
The series win at Edgbaston not only underscored England’s dominance but also highlighted their ability to perform under pressure. The West Indies, despite showing moments of promise, were unable to maintain consistency across the matches, leading to their defeat.
As the cricketing world continues to witness such thrilling performances, England’s comprehensive victory and Ben Stokes’ record-breaking innings will be remembered as significant moments in Test cricket history. The series also provided valuable insights into the strengths and areas for improvement for both teams as they prepare for future contests.