In a jaw-dropping comeback that left the cricketing world in awe, Ben Stokes, the English cricket sensation, has staged a remarkable return to the One Day International (ODI) format. His unforgettable performance in the ICC World Cup 2019 final, which sparked discussions of knighthood, was no fluke. Stokes, a cricketing maestro, seized the spotlight once more in the 3rd ODI of the riveting series between England and New Zealand, delivering a show-stopping performance that transcended boundaries and broke records.
Reshaping History: Ben Stokes’s Heroic Century
In a pivotal showdown that could have swung either way, Ben Stokes emerged as England’s knight in shining armor. With a scintillating century that marked his first in the 50-over format since 2017, he set the stage for a spellbinding revival. Stokes’s return to the ODI arena was nothing short of magical, as he orchestrated a historic partnership with Dawid Malan, his teammate, and together, they defied the odds against the formidable Kiwis.
A Record-Breaking Partnership: Stokes and Malan Shine
Ben Stokes and Dawid Malan etched their names in the annals of cricketing history by eclipsing the memorable stand of 198 runs set by Eoin Morgan and Joe Root against New Zealand in Nottingham back in 2015. While Stokes crafted the fastest century of his ODI career, Dawid Malan, who displayed remarkable finesse with a score of 96, narrowly missed joining the century club. He fell prey to Trent Boult’s precision in the 32nd over, but the damage had already been done.
Stokes’s century was a spectacle of power and precision, reaching the coveted milestone in a mere 76 balls. This remarkable feat catalyzed England’s resurgence from a dire 13-2 to a commanding total against New Zealand, igniting hope and anticipation among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Ben Stokes’s Century: A Lightning Bolt
Notably, Stokes’s century was not just fast; it was also historic. Ranked as the 12th fastest century among the 63 ODI centuries scored by players from full-member nations in 2023, it exemplified his unparalleled talent and unmatched determination. This breathtaking achievement marked Stokes’s fourth ODI century, but what made it truly special was that it was his first century since he made the remarkable decision to reverse his retirement.
Stokes reached his century in the 29th over, expertly navigating the challenge posed by Glenn Phillips. His innings was an exhibition of sheer brilliance, characterized by 11 boundaries and three mighty sixes, all within a span of 76 deliveries. This extraordinary performance breathed life into the cricketing world and affirmed Ben Stokes’s status as one of the brightest stars in the sport.
The Resurrection: Stokes Returns to the ODI Stage
Ben Stokes, a prominent figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a key player for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), had previously retired from the 50-over format. His decision to return to the England ODI side for the World Cup in India was met with eager anticipation. Stokes’s scorching innings not only shattered records but also rekindled the fervor and excitement of cricket fans around the globe.
A Historical Feat: Stokes’s 182
What initially began as a quick-fire century rapidly transformed into a historic innings that rewrote the record books. Ben Stokes surged past Jason Roy’s outstanding record of 180 runs against Australia in 2018. His awe-inspiring performance in the 3rd ODI against New Zealand saw him accumulate an astonishing 182 runs from a mere 124 deliveries. Stokes’s majestic display featured an astounding 15 boundaries and an incredible nine colossal sixes, leaving spectators and fellow cricketers in absolute awe.
Conclusion
Ben Stokes’s triumphant return to the ODI format was nothing short of extraordinary. His masterful century, a record-breaking partnership, and a historic individual score have not only secured his place in cricketing legend but have also reignited the passion for the sport. As he prepares to represent England in the upcoming World Cup in India, the cricketing world eagerly awaits more astonishing feats from this cricketing virtuoso.
In summary, Ben Stokes’s awe-inspiring innings is a testament to the unpredictability and sheer excitement that cricket brings to the global stage. It was a moment that transcended the boundaries of the sport, captivating the hearts of fans worldwide. Stokes’s return is more than a comeback; it’s a reawakening of the magic and brilliance that cricket has to offer.