Ben Stokes Aims for Big Score in Fourth Test Against India at Old Trafford
Stokes Seeks Redemption Ahead of Fourth Test
As the fourth Test against India approaches, England's captain Ben Stokes is eager to secure a substantial score and regain his batting form. This comes after he was awarded 'Player of the Match' for his impressive all-round performance at Lord's during the third Test.
With England leading the series 2-1, the team is hopeful that 'Big Match Stokes', known for his explosive performances with the ball, will also deliver with the bat at Manchester's Old Trafford Stadium.
Throughout the current home series, Stokes has accumulated 163 runs across six innings, averaging 27.16, with a top score of 44. Despite his batting struggles, he stands out as England's leading wicket-taker, having claimed 11 wickets at an average of 29.45, with best bowling figures of 4/66.
Over the last 17 Tests spanning approximately 18 months, Stokes has managed only 774 runs in 30 innings, averaging a disappointing 27.64, with five half-centuries and a highest score of 83.
Stokes is renowned for his ability to shine in crucial moments, evidenced by his 84* against New Zealand in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, his half-century in the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, and his remarkable 135* at Headingley in 2019, all of which contributed to significant victories for his team.
As the series hangs in the balance at Old Trafford, fans are hoping for another memorable performance from Stokes. He boasts an impressive record at this venue, having scored 579 runs in eight Tests and 12 innings, averaging 52.63, including two centuries and three fifties, with a personal best of 176. With the ball, he has taken 11 wickets at an average of 27.54.
Additionally, Stokes is just 61 runs away from reaching the milestone of 11,000 international runs, a feat achieved by only ten English players. Across 271 international matches, he has amassed 10,939 runs at an average of 35.63, featuring 18 centuries and 60 fifties, with his highest score being 258.
Will Old Trafford witness Stokes break his scoring drought and deliver a standout performance?