Janice R. Andrews
Even though the fifth Test match between England and India in Dharamsala was tough all around, England had a glimmer of optimism when Ben Stokes made an unexpected comeback to bowling. Having earlier vowed not to bowl on the Indian trip, Stokes surprised both opponents and teammates by deciding to grab the ball on the spur of the moment.
Stokes made an instant impression, having bowled in a match for 251 days prior to that, and taking 28 wickets in a row in the series against spin. With the first delivery of his career, he bowled Rohit Sharma of India, displaying the skill that England had badly lacked. The joy was short-lived, though, as England struggled to match India’s formidable batting order.
England faced a difficult task as India piled on the runs, amassing a challenging total of 473-8 by the conclusion of the day, despite Stokes’ outstanding performance. Even with seasoned veterans like Mark Wood and James Anderson, the English bowlers were unable to stop India’s batting assault.
Nevertheless, Stokes’ bowling provided some hope for England’s future despite the overall gloom. His comeback to form following knee surgery is a testament to tenacity and willpower, evoking memories of great all-rounders such as Sir Garfield Sobers and Jacques Kallis.
In addition to bolstering England’s bowling attack, Stokes’ return gives the squad balance, which has been missing in previous games. His display of skill serves as a reminder of his priceless bat and ball contributions to the team.
Even if England could lose the series, Stokes’ comeback suggests that things could be better for the squad in the future. His return to form as a bowler marks a sea change, giving the team hope for improved results going forward and boosting morale.
Even if Ben Stokes’ surprising bowling performance in the England vs. India series didn’t change the result of the game, it gave the English squad newfound hope. Stokes’ return is a ray of optimism for better times ahead as they consider their difficult tour of India.
