Ben Stokes’ heroics are praised by Virat in King Kohli’s praise amid Australian dominance in the 2023 Ashes

After beating England by 43 runs in the second Test at Lord’s, Australia maintained a commanding lead in the current Ashes 2023 series. England’s skipper, Ben Stokes, had a fantastic game and set a record by scoring 155 runs in the fourth inning.

Stokes’ courageous effort garnered a tonne of plaudits from cricket fans and on social media, making it the highest individual score by an England captain in the fourth innings of a Test match.

Virat Kohli, a former captain of India, lauded England all-rounder Ben Stokes for his fantastic performance on Twitter. Kohli expressed his respect for Stokes in a tweet, calling him the most competitive player he has ever come across. In addition to applauding Stokes’ brilliant innings, Kohli noted how Australia had controlled the series.

“When I said that Ben Stokes was the most competitive opponent I’ve ever faced, I wasn’t kidding. Innings of the greatest calibre, but Australia is too excellent right now,” King Kohli said in a tweet that has now been seen by three million people on the social media platform.

When I referred to Ben Stokes as the most competitive opponent I’ve faced, I wasn’t kidding. Innings of the greatest calibre, but Australia is now too good?

The last day, Stokes set out cautiously and collaborated with Ben Duckett to establish a foothold. However, when Jonny Bairstow was removed, Stokes launched a barrage of boundaries, scoring an astounding 50 runs in the last five overs before lunch. He blasted Cameron Green for three consecutive sixes in his attacking display.

Stokes continued to bat aggressively in the second session with aid from Stuart Broad, helping to reduce the deficit to almost 100 runs. Unfortunately for England, the game was swiftly over because the batting order collapsed once Stokes was dismissed. Australian Josh Hazlewood and wicketkeeper Alex Carey both contributed significantly to the triumph.

After this victory, Australia currently has a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The Australian team proved their skill by taking four fast wickets on the fourth day, solidifying their position as the clear favourites to secure a second triumph. Stokes put in valiant attempts, but the English squad as a whole crumbled under pressure and could not keep up the pace.