In a spectacular display of cricketing prowess, England’s all-rounder Ben Stokes again made headlines. He crossed the 3,000-run mark in ODI cricket during the 3rd ODI against New Zealand on September 13, 2023. Ben Stokes, who recently returned from ODI retirement to bolster England’s ICC Cricket World Cup defence, not only achieved this milestone but also etched his name in history with a remarkable innings.
Ben Stokes Explosive Performance
The veteran all-rounder was at his explosive best during the match. Stokes bludgeoned his way to a monumental 182 runs in just 124 balls, a performance that included an astonishing 15 fours and 9 sixes. His blistering strike rate of over 146 left Kiwis breathless. He went on to eclipse the previous highest individual score by an England player in ODIs, surpassing Jason Roy’s 180 against Australia in 2018.
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With this monumental achievement, Ben Stokes has now accumulated 3,159 runs in 108 ODIs, boasting an impressive average of 40.50. His runs have come at a striking rate of 96.36, a testament to his aggressive style of play. Stokes has also registered four centuries and 22 half-centuries in 93 innings, with his highest score being the magnificent 182.
Turning the spotlight on the match itself, England found themselves in a difficult position at 13/2 when Stokes emerged from the pavilion. However, he orchestrated a remarkable 199-run partnership for the third wicket with Dawid Malan, who contributed 96 runs in 95 balls, laced with 12 fours and a six. This partnership laid the foundation for England’s imposing total of 368 in 48.1 overs. Skipper Jos Buttler’s 38 off 24 balls, comprising six fours and a six, was another crucial partnership as it added 78 runs for the fourth wicket.
New Zealand Bowling Performance
The Kiwi bowlers, led by Trent Boult (5/51) and Ben Lister (3/69), posed a formidable challenge to the English batsmen. Yet, they couldn’t contain the sheer force of Ben Stokes, who displayed immense composure and aggression in equal measure.
Kiwis Struggle in the Chase
In response to England’s challenging total, New Zealand found themselves in dire straits early in the chase. The pace trio of Chris Woakes, Reece Topley, and Sam Curran rocked the Kiwi batting order, reducing them to 70/5. Although Glenn Phillips fought valiantly with 72 runs in 76 balls, including five fours and two sixes, and Rachin Ravindra contributed 28 runs in 22 balls with five fours, the New Zealand innings folded at a mere 187 in just 39 overs.
Bowling Heroes for England
Chris Woakes (3/31) and Liam Livingstone (3/16) emerged as the stars with the ball for England, while Reece Topley took two wickets, and Sam Curran and Moeen Ali contributed with one each. Ben Stokes, with his all-round brilliance, was rightfully awarded the ‘Player of the Match.’
Series Scorecard
With this exhilarating victory, England now leads the series 2-1, with one match remaining—a testament to their resilience and determination.
England’s journey in the ICC Cricket World Cup defence is off to a thrilling start. Fans of Ben Stokes eagerly await more breathtaking moments and hope to see South Paw continue his dazzling form in the upcoming ODI World Cup.
