Ben Stokes Shines with Five-Wicket Haul and Century in Manchester Test

In a stunning display at Old Trafford, England's captain Ben Stokes showcased his all-round capabilities with a five-wicket haul and a brilliant 141-run innings against India. This performance not only solidified his leadership role but also reignited England's hopes in the ongoing Test series. Stokes' tactical brilliance and resilience were evident as he led his team to a commanding position, marking a significant moment in his career. With this match, he joins an elite group of cricketers who have achieved both a five-wicket haul and a century in a Test match, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 26, 2025, 19:56 IST

Stokes Delivers Stellar Performance

The captain of England, Ben Stokes, thrilled cricket enthusiasts with an impressive all-round display, featuring a five-wicket haul and a remarkable 141 runs in the first innings of the ongoing fourth Test against Team India at Old Trafford, Manchester.

A Commanding Lead for England

Stokes, recognized as one of England's finest all-rounders, showcased exceptional leadership and match awareness, guiding his team to a formidable total of 669, establishing a significant 311-run lead in the first innings. This strategy aimed to put pressure on India as they began their second innings.

Strategic Captaincy

From the outset of the Test, Stokes took charge, implementing aggressive field placements and effectively rotating his bowlers. His all-round performance was a stark contrast to his previous outings in the series.

Stokes Takes Charge

Understanding the weight of his dual role as captain and player, Stokes rose to the occasion when his team needed him most. With England leading the series 2-1 against India, his performance was crucial in reigniting hopes for an unassailable lead heading into the next Test at the Oval.

A Defining Moment

Stokes previously earned the Player of the Match title in the Lord's Test, where he took three wickets while conceding only 48 runs, helping England secure a thrilling 22-run victory by dismissing India for 170.

Tactical Brilliance

In the Manchester Test, Stokes displayed tactical acumen, particularly in his field placements and bowler rotations. He took it upon himself to bowl when it mattered most, achieving five wickets for 72 runs in 24 overs, ultimately dismissing India for 358.

A Historic Five-Wicket Haul

This five-wicket haul marked Stokes' first in eight years, reinforcing his reputation for performing under pressure.

Stokes' Batting Resurgence

After a series of underwhelming performances, Stokes silenced critics with a brilliant innings of 141 runs off 198 balls, including 11 fours and 3 sixes. Despite experiencing cramps, he returned to the crease to complete his innings.

A Century to Remember

Stokes' century was his first since June 2023, breaking a long drought of 35 innings without reaching triple figures. His partnership with Joe Root, who scored 150 runs, was pivotal in stabilizing England's innings after a few early setbacks.

Joining the Elite Ranks

With both a five-wicket haul and a century, Stokes not only shifted the momentum in favor of England but also entered an elite group of cricketers. He became the first England captain and the fifth player overall to achieve this feat in a Test match.

Milestones Achieved

Stokes also crossed the 7000 Test runs milestone, joining the ranks of Jacques Kallis and Gary Sobers as the third all-rounder to achieve 7000 runs and 200 wickets in Tests, solidifying his legacy in cricket history.

A Record at Old Trafford

Additionally, he became the fifth batter to score three or more Test centuries at Old Trafford and joined the elite list of England captains with multiple centuries in Manchester.