Twitter Reactions: Ben Stokes shines as England thrash South Africa to level series 1-1

'To come back from last week's disappointment, gives us a lot of confidence,' said Stokes.

By Pratheek S

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England Team
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England Team (Photo Source: Twitter)

England put up a comprehensive performance over South Africa, recording a victory by an innings and 85 runs in the second Test match of the ongoing three-match series at Old Trafford, Manchester, on August 27, Saturday. The hosts also level the series 1-1 and take the series into the decider in The Oval, London. 

On an overcast morning on Day 1, South African skipper Dean Elgar won the toss, and to everyone’s surprise, decided to bat first. The Proteas fell apart in quick succession, and none of the batters crossed the 25-run mark, barring the tailender, Kagiso Rabada, who scored 36 runs. South Africa were bowled out for 151 in 53.2 overs, and it was the familiar pairing of James Anderson and Stuart Broad who caused the damage, as both picked up three wickets each.

England, in their first innings, well and truly eclipsed South Africa’s first innings total, scoring 415 and taking a lead of 264 runs. Skipper Ben Stokes and wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes starred with the bat, with a century each, and put the Three Lions in a commanding position. South Africa needed a miracle to turn the match around with over two days to go.

I don’t regret any decisions made prior to the game: Dean Elgar

The Proteas, however, tumbled yet again in the second innings and were bowled out for 179 in 85.1 overs. Pacer Ollie Robinson bagged four wickets and Anderson took three wickets, to surpass Glenn McGrath, and become the highest wicket-taker in international cricket among pacers. Stokes was given the Player of the Match for picking up four wickets and scoring 103 runs.

“To come back from last week’s disappointment at Lord’s, gives us a lot of confidence and sets up for a cracking finish,” said Stokes during the post-match presentation. “When you have that clear mindset and remain positive, it makes things that much more easier. I really wanted to make sure that I bowl those overs and keep the new ball bowlers fresh.”

“England far better than us throughout the last three days and congrats to them,” said Elgar. “We had a plan coming here and it was about the team selection and to bat first. I don’t regret any decisions made prior to the game.”

Here is how the fans reacted to England’s win:

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England v South Africa 2022South AfricaBen Stokes