Ben Stokes’ Remarkable Rise as a Test All-Rounder
Ben Stokes’ record as a Test all-rounder is nothing short of incredible. On Wednesday, he reached the rare double of 6,000 runs and 200 wickets, placing him in the company of legends like Sir Garfield Sobers and Jacques Kallis.
Both Sobers and Kallis were renowned for their ability to excel as frontline batsmen and bowlers for the West Indies and South Africa, respectively. Some even considered Sobers the best batter they had ever seen. Stokes’ achievement in joining this illustrious group is a phenomenal accomplishment, and his return to bowling has provided excellent balance to the England team.
At times last winter, when he played as a specialist batsman, Stokes seemed to retreat into his shell a bit. But with his versatility as an all-rounder, he now has the freedom to attack more freely. As he rediscovers his bowling rhythm, it won’t be long before Stokes starts replicating his positive intent with the bat, as he is simply too good a player to be kept down for long.
Stokes’ bowling is not just a part-time option to hold up an end; he is a genuine wicket-taking threat. It has been a delight to see him running in and delivering the ball without any visible discomfort this week. The only concern is that he doesn’t overdo it, as he has already bowled spells of 8 and 10 overs.
Stokes’ ability to lean away to the off side and retain the ability to move the ball either way makes him a challenging proposition for both left-handers and right-handers. His strong wrist position and the angles he creates, especially with the potential for reverse swing later in the summer, make him one of England’s most versatile and effective bowlers.
In reaching the milestone of 100 wickets both at home and away, Stokes has demonstrated his all-round prowess. His presence as an all-rounder allows England to play an extra spinner like Shoaib Bashir, or gives the debutant Gus Atkinson the opportunity to bowl short, hostile spells as part of a five-man attack.
Stokes’ continued excellence as a vital cricketer for England was once again emphasized on day two of this match, as he reached another career milestone. His unique abilities as a Test all-rounder are truly remarkable.
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