England skipper Joe Root has lauded his star performer Ben Stokes after his side’s critical 113-run victory over West Indies in the 2nd Test match at Old Trafford, Manchester.
The all-rounder scored a patient 176 in the first innings and followed it up with a quick-fire unbeaten 78 in 57 deliveries in the second to set up a declaration an hour into the final day.
Ben Stokes also chipped in with three wickets, earning him the man of the match award.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Root lauded Ben Stokes and labelled him as ‘Mr Incredible’.
“He’s Mr Incredible. I suppose. I certainly think he can keep performing at this level. I think the sky’s the limit for him really,” the England skipper said.
Ben Stokes can adapt to any situation
Root said “To have such a complete game, and so many different gears at your disposal, allows you the ability to keep getting better.”
“If he continues to read situations the way he is, and keeps the confidence that he’s playing with at the moment, there’s no reason why we can’t continue to see such brilliant performances as we have done this week, and over the last 12 months really,” he added.
The 29-year-all rounder has been a vital figure in England’s success over the past year, be it his World Cup-winning exploits against New Zealand in the final or his unbeaten 135 against Australia in the third Ashes Test, helping the hosts claim a memorable one-wicket win over the mighty Aussies.
It’s about taking the cap forward
Speaking about his different roles in both the innings, Ben Stokes said: “Both completely different roles, last night and this morning was simple in terms of what we needed to do to get ahead of the game.”
“I’ve been round a long time now and I have that understanding of the role models we are. We want to pave the way for England cricketers in 20 years’ time. It’s not all about the present, it’s about taking the cap forward,” Stokes said.
“Hopefully that motto – taking the cap forward – is still there in 20 years. We’ve a duty to win games but also too youngsters who want to aspire to be like us,” he added.
With this win, England have drawn the three-match Test series level at 1-1 against West Indies going into the final one which starts from July 24 on the same ground, with West Indies needing just a draw to retain the Wisden trophy.
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