England captain Joe Root says Ben Stokes’ team-mates are “in the presence of greatness” after watching the latest masterstroke from cricket’s very own “Mr Incredible”.
Stokes produced another classic performance to add to his bulging man-of-the-match portfolio, helping his side to a series-levelling win on day five of the second Test against the West Indies.
Having already set up the game with a brilliantly-paced 176 in the first innings, Stokes reeled through his repertoire as England wrapped up a 113-run win at Emirates Old Trafford.
Stokes continues to do just that – be it the World Cup final, a lost Ashes cause at Headingley or another day-five finale in Cape Town at the turn of the year. He carries a huge burden of expectation now but seems happier than ever with the load.
“It’s a case of doing what’s needed at the time,” he said with typical understatement. “I’ll always try to do whatever is needed.
“I’ve been around a long time now and I have that understanding, of the role models we are. We want to pave the way for England cricketers in 20 years’ time. It’s not all about the present, it’s about taking the cap forward.
“Hopefully that motto – taking the cap forward – is still there in 20 years. We’ve a duty to win games but also to youngsters who want to aspire to be like us.”
