With the conclusion of the Indian Premier League 2025, and the emergence of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the winners, the focus has now been shifted towards the upcoming India’s Test series against England. The English will host India for a 5-match Test series from June 20. The England team has got a massive boost with the return of their captain and all rounder, Ben Stokes. The English skipper turns 34 today. Let’s dive into his top 5 knocks in the Red Ball Format.
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1. 135 vs Australia – Headingley, 2019 (Ashes)
In this match, England was chasing 359 runs to win. At one point, they had lost 9 wickets for just 286 runs. Ben Stokes played an amazing innings and stayed not out on 135. He hit 8 sixes and batted with the last man, Jack Leach, to help England win by 1 wicket. This is considered one of the greatest innings in Test cricket history.
2. 258 vs South Africa – Cape Town, 2016
Ben Stokes scored 258 runs from just 198 balls, with a very high strike rate of 130.30. It is the fastest double century (200+) by an England player in Tests. He had a big partnership with Jonny Bairstow, and England scored 629 runs. His innings showed how powerful and aggressive he can be, even in Test cricket.
3. 120 vs Australia – Perth, 2013
This was only Ben Stokes’ second Test match. England had already lost the Ashes series 0-3 and were under pressure. On a difficult pitch and against fast bowler Mitchell Johnson, Stokes scored his first Test century. Though England lost the match, this innings showed his courage and fighting spirit.
4. 120 vs India – Rajkot, 2016
Playing in India is tough for foreign players because of spinning pitches. Ben Stokes scored 120 runs against top spinners like Ashwin and Jadeja. His knock helped England post a strong total. He also took 3 wickets in the match, showing that he is a good all-rounder even in Indian conditions.
5. 82 vs New Zealand – Lord’s, 2022
This was Stokes’ first match as England’s Test captain. England was chasing 277 runs and were in a difficult position. Stokes scored a fast and confident 82 runs. This innings gave the team belief and marked the beginning of the aggressive “Bazball” style of play under his captaincy.
