England’s aggressive approach, all-or-nothing batting philosophy, and eagerness to build momentum once again resulted in the loss of their top-order wickets in this year’s World Cup. They went from 133/1 to 192/6 in a relatively low-key penultimate match against the Netherlands.
Recognizing the precarious situation and the need for a crucial win to keep their hopes alive in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Ben Stokes had to suppress his natural instinct and stabilize the innings. After five consecutive defeats, the pressure was on England.
In the end, England secured a convincing 160-run victory over the Netherlands by posting a total of 339/9. Ben Stokes played a pivotal role by smashing six sixes in the final eight overs, demonstrating that patience and calculated aggression could yield significant rewards. His maiden World Cup century (108 off 84) showcased resilience after England’s hopes of defending their title had been dashed.
Ben Stokes’ contribution to English cricket is so significant that there were suggestions to limit his participation in this ill-fated World Cup due to an impending knee surgery necessary for his readiness for the upcoming Test series against India. However, Stokes, the spiritual leader of English cricket, was not willing to abandon his team.
Stokes entered the fray at a somewhat comical moment, witnessing Joe Root’s dismissal as he attempted his signature reverse-scoop shot. Harry Brook fell victim to impetuosity while facing a short ball, skying it to deep square-leg. Dawid Malan, who had been batting fluently, was run out due to a misjudged single called by Stokes. Moeen Ali, despite his frustration at finding fielders with his shots, perished with a lofted drive. Chris Woakes, in contrast, exhibited patience and, alongside Stokes, formed the most substantial partnership of the match.
Stokes initially played some aggressive shots, including a six over midwicket, but then he restrained himself. The partnership between Woakes and Stokes allowed them to steadily rebuild the innings, rendering the Netherlands’ bowling less effective.
“I wanted to take the game as deep as possible. We knew the wicket was good. We spent that time to gauge, assess and find the best circumstances to take risks,” Stokes later explained. His last 50 runs came from just 20 balls.
Stokes reached his second half-century by clearing his front leg and hitting a six in the 43rd over. He added three more sixes in the 45th over as Aryan Dutt struggled. Stokes’ exceptional sixes included one that was struck straight over the bowler’s head, another pulled to deep square leg for a maximum, and a third that was a high full toss dispatched well over fine leg. The over produced 24 runs.
By the end of the 50th over, Stokes had guided England to a comfortable total. Once again, Ben Stokes, in crafting a comeback in the latter part of the innings, rescued England from a potentially disastrous situation.
England, led by Jos Buttler, will now head to Kolkata to face Pakistan in their next match. A banner in the stands humorously declared, “We beat Bangladesh.” Thanks to Ben Stokes, there was no upset at the hands of the Netherlands.
#2023 World Cup #Ben Stokes #England Cricket Team #Netherlands Cricket #ODI World Cup 2023
