Published: Jan 27, 2024, 04:22 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 27, 2024, 04:22 PM (IST)
IND VS ENG: Ben Stokes was bowled by Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for the 12th time in Test cricket, a record held by no other bowler in the format. Ashwin’s domination over Stokes was on full show once more. Known for his tenacity, Stokes arrived at the crease with England desperately in need of a partnership after India had already lost four wickets for 140 runs and was behind by 190 runs in the first innings.
Ashwin had other ideas, but Stokes was under pressure to lead the innings with Ollie Pope and cut the gap. Ashwin struck the middle stump with a brilliantly tossed-up delivery, but England was still behind by 27 runs. The ball clung to Stokes’ outside edge, veering sharply and smashing into the off-stump. Although Stokes, with his customarily powerful technique, had done a decent job of covering the line and pressing defensively, Ashwin’s delivery was simply too superb to resist.
With a succession of rapid deliveries targeted at the left-hander, Ashwin set up Stokes for success, forcing the English captain to stay on the back foot. It was a brilliant move. Once Stokes’ stance was well established, Ashwin cleverly changed up his delivery, sending one up with a deceptive fly and luring Stokes to turn away, ultimately outwitting him with absolute brilliance.
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Stokes was not his typical aggressive self when he arrived at the crease on Sunday, adopting an oddly defensive demeanor. Although his unwavering defence was admirable, it unintentionally benefited his bitter rival Ashwin. Stokes made a critical mistake by letting the off-spinner continue to apply pressure with his unwavering spin. It’s difficult to hold out against a spinner of Ashwin’s caliber, and in the end, Stokes’ cautious approach proved to be his downfall.
Ashwin’s continued dismissal of Stokes was evidence of his talent and knowledge of the game. Every time the two legends square off, it’s a wit-war, with Ashwin frequently coming out on top. It’s interesting to note that Stokes is the batsman the off-spinner has dismissed the most; prior to this Test, the English skipper and former Australia Test opener David Warner were tied for first place.
Ashwin has bowled 623 deliveries to Stokes in their 25 innings together, giving up 232 runs and taking 12 wickets. With an average of just 19.33 against the Indian off-spinner, Stokes continues to pose a threat to Ashwin’s bowling skills.
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India Playing 11
