Has Ben Stokes Joined the Elite All-Rounders Club with His Century at Old Trafford?
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Synopsis
Ben Stokes has made history at Old Trafford, becoming just the third all-rounder to reach 7,000 runs and 200 wickets in Test cricket. His stunning 141 runs came as England posted a colossal 669 all out against India. Discover the highlights of this remarkable achievement and how it places Stokes among the legends of the game.
Key Takeaways
- Ben Stokes joins an elite group of all-rounders.
- His innings of 141 marks a significant return to form.
- England's total of 669 is a historic achievement.
- Stokes' performance highlights his crucial role in the team.
- Milestones were reached by other players, enhancing the significance of the match.
Manchester, July 26 (NationPress) Ben Stokes delivered a remarkable all-round display at Old Trafford, Manchester, marking his place as only the third all-rounder in Test cricket history – following in the footsteps of Sir Garfield Sobers and Jacques Kallis – to accumulate 7,000 runs and take 200 wickets.
The England captain reached this impressive milestone in style, hitting a magnificent six early on Day 4, before crafting a determined 141, finally breaking his two-year drought for a Test century, with his previous one during the Ashes in July 2023.
Despite suffering from cramps on Day 3, the 34-year-old momentarily left the field but returned after Jamie Smith’s dismissal to finish strong, scoring his final 41 runs off just 34 deliveries, including three towering sixes. As he departed, the crowd erupted into a standing ovation.
Stokes’ contribution, alongside Joe Root’s magnificent 150 and fifties from openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, propelled England to a staggering 669 all out – their fifth-highest total in Tests and the second-highest against India after their 710/7 declared in Birmingham in 2011.
This total also stands as England’s highest innings score ever recorded at Old Trafford, eclipsing the previous record of 627/9 declared against Australia in 1934.
The innings stretched over 157 overs, leaving India’s bowlers fatigued, with Jasprit Bumrah delivering 33 overs – his second-most in a single innings. Ravindra Jadeja stood out among the bowlers with figures of 4/143, while Mohammed Siraj’s sharp catch to dismiss Brydon Carse for 47 finally halted the assault.
Day 3 was filled with milestones for England. Joe Root ascended to second on the all-time Test run-scorers list, surpassing Rahul Dravid (13,288), Jacques Kallis (13,289), and Ricky Ponting (13,378). With 13,409 runs, he now trails only Sachin Tendulkar’s monumental record of 15,921 runs.
Point of View
Ben Stokes' performance at Old Trafford not only showcases his prowess but also reinforces the depth of talent within England's cricketing ranks. It is a reminder of the impact individual brilliance can have on a team's success, especially against formidable opponents like India.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What record did Ben Stokes achieve at Old Trafford?
Ben Stokes became the third all-rounder in Test history to score 7,000 runs and take 200 wickets.
How many runs did Stokes score in this match?
Stokes scored an impressive 141 runs, marking his first Test century in two years.
What was England's total in this innings?
England posted a monumental total of 669 all out.
Who were the other significant contributors to England's innings?
Joe Root scored 150 runs, and openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley contributed with fifties.
What was the historical significance of this match?
This innings is England’s highest total recorded at Old Trafford and their fifth-highest in Test history.
