England won the third Ashes at Headingley, and all credit goes to Ben Stokes. Once again after that magnificent inning in the World Cup finale, Ben Stokes batted with grit and determination to win Headingley Test for England by just one wicket.
The second best moment for Stokes
England needed 73 to win when Stokes was joined by last man Jack Leach. Australia were all set to retain the Ashes. But the pair was outstanding and did the unimaginable. They put on a stand of 76 in 10.2 overs – of which Leach contributed an unbeaten 17-ball 1. Stokes hit the winning shot to seal the unlikeliest of victories. Stokes, post the match explained the emotion as one of the “top two feelings I’ve ever had on a cricket field”. He obviously hinted to the Super Over finale in the World Cup final last month. “It probably matches the World Cup, to be honest. Unbelievable, it’s one I’ll never forget. I’m not sure that’ll ever happen again. I just had to try to take it all in. It’s never over until it’s over.”
A special partnership
He was asked about his planning to carry the innings. He explained with Leach on the crease, they knew what needed to be done. They discussed accordingly and Leach followed the plan. “He’s a super nightwatchman, he’s got a 92, and I backed him knowing what he had to do. I couldn’t watch at the end, I was just waiting to see what happened.” Stokes further added, “When it got down to 20 [runs required], I started thinking I could rein it in a little bit, but when it was 70s, 60s, 50s I thought I had to really try and go. I was so in the zone as to what I had to do.”
Leach was seen kissing his partner’s cheek after the winning shot. Stokes, in return, paid a tribute to. He gave due credit to Jack Leach for being there in such a high-profile situation. “That was the best kiss I’ve ever had.”, said Stokes.
