World Cup 2023: Ben Stokes becomes 8th England batter to score 1000 international runs in India
In a historic moment on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore, Ben Stokes became the 8th English batsman to achieve the remarkable milestone of 1000 international runs on Indian soil during the 2023 World Cup. Stokes’ incredible feat added his name to an exclusive list of distinguished English cricketers who have achieved this remarkable milestone in their international careers.
The Magnificent Eight:
Ben Stokes’ name now stands alongside some of the all-time greats of English cricket. The illustrious club of English batsmen with 1000 international runs in India includes Kevin Pietersen (1876), Joe Root (1797), Alastair Cook (1586), Mike Gatting (1408), Graham Gooch (1187), Andrew Strauss (1090), and Ian Bell (1062). These legends of the game have left an indelible mark on the sport, and Stokes’ achievement further solidifies his place among them.
A Journey from T20 World Cup to the 2023 World Cup:
Ben Stokes first ventured into international cricket on Indian soil during the 2016 T20 World Cup. His remarkable journey has seen him rise to prominence, becoming one of England’s most cherished and versatile cricketers.
Challenges and Triumphs: Stokes faced his fair share of challenges leading up to the 2023 World Cup. A thumb injury kept him on the sidelines for England’s first four matches in the tournament. Despite the setback, he continued to prepare and practice diligently, eager to contribute to his team’s success in the World Cup.
In his comeback match against Sri Lanka, Stokes took the field at the fourth position and delivered a standout performance. Not only did he make an impact with the bat, but he also dismissed Kagiso Rabada with ease. However, after being dismissed, Stokes showed his frustration by sending the ball soaring into the sky. England, unfortunately, ended up losing to Proteas by 229 runs in their final group match.
A Year of Ups and Downs:
Earlier in the year, Stokes made a significant decision to step away from One-Day International (ODI) cricket during the series against New Zealand. He marked his departure from ODI cricket by setting a new record for the highest individual score by an English batsman in ODIs, surpassing Jason Roy’s previous record.
Stokes had been an integral part of the England team that triumphed in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup and clinched the ICC T20 World Cup in 2022 on Australian soil. These achievements have made him a national hero, and his contributions to English cricket will be celebrated for generations to come.
In conclusion, Ben Stokes’ journey to becoming the 8th English batsman to score 1000 international runs in India during the 2023 World Cup is a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the sport. As he adds his name to the pantheon of English cricket legends, his achievements continue to inspire a new generation of cricketers and cricket enthusiasts. Stokes’ story is a reminder that dedication and hard work can lead to remarkable milestones in the world of cricket, and we eagerly anticipate more extraordinary moments from this extraordinary athlete.
The other seven batters to accomplish the feat are Kevin Pietersen (1876), Joe Root (1797), Alastair Cook (1586), Mike Gatting (1408), Graham Gooch (1187), Andrew Strauss (1090), and Ian Bell (1062). During the T20 World Cup in 2016, Stokes made his debut for India as an international cricket player.
Due to a hip injury, Stokes missed England’s opening four World Cup games. Additionally, he did not participate in the warm-up games against Bangladesh and India.
At number four, Stokes came to bat and gave Rabada a straightforward catch and bowl. Stokes, frustrated at being out, threw the ball high into the air. England suffered their worst loss in the 50-over format, falling short of the Proteas by 229 runs.
During the series against New Zealand earlier this year, Stokes came out of retirement from ODIs. After breaking Jason Roy’s record for the highest individual score by an English batter in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he began the series with a half-century.
The England squad that triumphed in both the 2019 World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia had Stokes as a key member.
