Ben Stokes helps out KL Rahul after the latter lost his shoes while running

Fortunately for the right-handed batsman, the leather didn't land on the stumps and ended up mid-pitch.

Published - 08 Sept 2018, 21:55 IST | Updated - 08 Sept 2018, 21:55 IST

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All round cricketer Ben Stokes had previously gone through a controversial phase owing to the brawl he was involved in outside the Bristol Bar. Thereafter, his credentials as an individual came under the scanner. However, most recently, he showed some sportsman spirit during England’s fifth Test match against India at Kennington Oval in London.

The incident occurred during the fifth over of India’s innings. KL Rahul, after faltering in the first four matches, came out all guns blazing in a bid to hit his way out of form. After four overs, India raced away to 16 runs. Stokes was introduced into the bowling attack in the fifth over and he dished out a short of a length delivery to the Karnataka-born batsman.

Stokes’ heartwarming act

The ball was sliding down the leg side, but Rahul managed to rock back on to the backfoot and nudged the cherry on the leg side. After getting bat to ball, he instantly set off for a single. However, on his way, he lost his right shoe, which tossed up in the air. Fortunately for the right-handed batsman, the leather didn’t land on the stumps and ended up mid-pitch.

Stokes moved on to his right to collect the ball but saw a fielder running in and hence, didn’t go in the ball’s direction. However, on seeing Rahul’s shoe lying on the ground, he went and collected it. Moreover, he untied the laces and handed it over to Rahul following which the 26-year-old batter removed his gloves and put on his shoes.

Rahul eventually scored 37 runs from 53 deliveries with the help of four boundaries. Just when he looked settled to get a substantial score under his belt, Sam Curran accounted for his wicket in the 23rd over. The cherry swung in and cannoned into the timber to end Rahul’s knock.