ENG vs SA: Ben Stokes gets standing ovation after scoring his first century as England's Test captain

The second Test match of the ongoing three-match series between England and South Africa got underway at Old Trafford, Manchester, on August 25, Thursday. England, after losing the toss, put up a remarkable bowling display on Day 1. But the Day 2 of the Test match belonged to their captain Ben Stokes, who brought up his 12th Test century putting them in a commanding position.

Stokes, who arrived when the team was struggling at 134 for the loss of four wickets, brought up the landmark in only 158 balls and helped them go past 300. This was also his first hundred as the England Test captain and second for the year, and the sixth score of over 50 runs in the last 11 matches. 

Perfect tempo, a combination of attack and defence: Michael Atherton

The star all-rounder brought up the ton in the 88th over with a gentle push straight onto bowler Kagiso Rabada, who deflected the ball into the square-leg region. Stokes ran two for that, as the Old Trafford crowd let out a huge roar. They rose up and applauded, and as did the England dressing room, to a great innings.

“He (Stokes) has played quite beautifully today… [with] perfect tempo, combination of attack and defence, and he has put England in a strong position,” said former England captain Michael Atherton, who was in the commentary box during the moment. Stokes gently took off his helmet and acknowledged the crowd.

Stokesy's first century as Test captain 🙌

Scorecard/clips: https://t.co/e4go7z2x78

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #ENGvSA 🇿🇦 | @IGcom pic.twitter.com/MwaUBJY7Nk

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 26, 2022

England have their noses in front

Stokes’ partnership with wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes for the sixth wicket was crucial as it added 173 runs and put the hosts well and truly on top of the game. On Day 1, South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first. They were bowled out for only 151, thanks to their long-serving fast bowlers, James Anderson and Stuart Broad, who picked up three wickets each.

England, after a slight hiccup early on, put themselves back in the game, and now look like the favourites. England have declared their innings at 415/9 with a lead of 264.