Ben Stokes England's all-rounder batter. © Twitter (@cricketdistrict)
Ben Stokes, a renowned English cricketer, is praised for his combative nature, robust frame, and outstanding talent. In the 2019 World Cup final, he played a crucial role in securing England’s victory with an unbeaten 84, showcasing extraordinary strength, skill, and willpower. This moment of redemption was significant for Stokes, who had previously faced challenges, notably in the 2016 T20 World Cup final and a serious off-field incident in 2017.
In the 2016 T20 World Cup final against West Indies, Stokes faced a setback as his attempts to defend 19 runs in the last over resulted in Carlos Brathwaite hitting four successive sixes. The more serious incident occurred in 2017 when Stokes was involved in a fight outside a club, leading to his arrest. Although cleared of the charge of affray, his reputation suffered, and he missed the 2017-18 Ashes tour.
Despite these setbacks, Stokes made a remarkable comeback, contributing significantly to England’s Test win in Sri Lanka. He earned praise for his exemplary attitude, and his pivotal role in the 2019 World Cup final exemplified his immense character. Known as a versatile player capable of impacting games with his batting, bowling, and fielding, Stokes has been compared to the legendary Ian Botham.
Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, Stokes demonstrated prodigious talent from a young age. He debuted for Durham at 17 and played a crucial role in various formats, with a notable breakthrough in 2011. However, his career also saw challenges, including disciplinary issues leading to being sent home from the England Lions tour in 2013 and missing the 2014 World T20 due to an incident in Barbados.
The passage emphasizes Stokes’ resilience, showcasing his ability to rejuvenate his career, such as his successful Ashes tour and a stunning double-hundred against South Africa. Stokes has been a central figure in the England team, serving as the vice-captain until the Bristol incident. Despite facing ups and downs, he emerged as an influential player on the global stage, becoming an IPL millionaire and entering 2019 at the peak of his powers.
Ben Stokes Profile Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Benjamin Andrew Stokes |
| Nickname | Stokesy, The Hurt Locker, Rocky |
| Place of Birth | Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand |
| Born | 4 June 1991 |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) |
| Eye Colour | Blue |
| Jersey No. (IPL) | 55 |
| Jersey No. (ICC) | 67 |
| Batting Style | Left hand Bat |
| Bowling Style | Right arm Fast medium |
| Role | Allrounder |
| Wife | Clare Ratcliffe |
| Son | Layton |
| Father | Gerard Stokes |
| Mother | Deborah Stokes |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Hobbies | Listening to music, driving |
Ben Stokes Biography
Early Life
Born on June 4, 1991, in Christchurch, New Zealand, Benjamin Andrew Stokes emerged as a cricket prodigy with a rich sporting pedigree. His father, Ged Stokes, had played in the international rugby league for New Zealand. Ben, however, would make a mark in a different arena, showcasing his exceptional talent on the cricket field.
Early Cricket Career
Stokes debuted for Durham at 17, and his prodigious talent took a little while to shine. In 2009, he impressed at the Under-19 World Cup, scoring a century against India. A year later, he marked his first-class debut for Durham with a maiden fifty, signalling the beginning of a promising career.
Breakthrough Year – 2011
The year 2011 was pivotal for Stokes. In April, he announced his arrival with a brilliant performance, taking 6 for 68 and scoring a hundred, including five sixes in an over. He made strides, earning his ODI debut against Ireland and later playing against India. However, a broken finger hampered his bowling, and he faced limited impact during this early phase.
Setbacks and Comeback
Stokes faced setbacks, notably being sent home from the England Lions tour in 2013 due to disciplinary issues. It served as a turning point, and he was rehabilitated at Durham. His resilience and performance earned him a spot on the 2013-14 Ashes tour, where he became a star despite England’s struggles.
Ups and Downs – 2014 to 2016
The period from 2014 to 2016 saw Stokes’ fiery and combustible side. He missed the 2014 World Twenty20 due to an incident in Barbados and faced challenges in Tests. Despite being dropped from the Test and ODI teams at different times, Stokes rebounded with impactful performances, including a memorable maiden Test hundred in Perth during the Ashes.
Global Recognition and IPL Stardom
Stokes became a global sensation, securing IPL deals that made him one of the most talked-about players. His performances in T20 leagues showcased his versatility and attracted immense attention.
Redemption and World Cup Glory – 2019
The year 2019 proved transformative for Stokes. Despite past controversies, he played a pivotal role in England’s historic World Cup triumph, particularly in the final, where his unbeaten 84 and heroic efforts secured victory. This redemption moment solidified his status as one of England’s cricketing heroes.
Records and Achievements
Stokes holds several records, including the fastest century by an England batter against New Zealand in 2015 and the second fastest in the world against South Africa in Cape Town. His joint record with Peter Parfitt for Test tons by England left-handers and being the 9th England cricketer to score more than 3 centuries and take over 40 wickets in Tests further underline his all-round excellence.
Personal Life
Beyond cricket, Ben Stokes has faced challenges off the field, notably the 2017 incident in Bristol. Cleared of affray charges, he demonstrated immense character to rebuild his reputation and career.
