“I’m probably the most hated father in New Zealand”- Ben Stokes’ dad after England’s glory at Lord’s

Gerard Stokes, England all-rounder Ben Stokes’ father, reckons himself to be the ‘most hated’ father in New Zealand. Stokes scored a masterful 84* off 98 balls in England’s run-chase of 242 in the World Cup final and then weaved his magic in the Super Over where his team edged New Zealand. The Three Lions got their hands on the coveted trophy for the final time ever having qualified for their only second semi-final since the 1992 appearance.

Stokes was rightly presented the Player of the Match. As far as his father is concerned, Gerard and his wife Deb are based in Christchurch, New Zealand. But the family moved to England after Gerard took a rugby league coaching contract in Cumbria where 12-year-old Ben began his cricketing endeavour.

Gerard funnily revealed how he heard a few of the fans, considering hatred for him after Stokes’ brilliance at the Home of Cricket. “I’ve had one or two say I’m probably the most hated father in New Zealand. That was pretty tongue-in-cheek, I hope it was anyway,” Gerard was quoted as saying in 1 News.

Gerard- A New Zealand supporter

After Eoin Morgan & Co emerged victoriously, Gerard had rather mixed feelings. While he was over the moon for his son, he said that he’s a Black Caps’ supporters. Speaking on Ben, his dad mentioned that the hard work his loved one has put in has paid rich dividends.

“I really am disappointed for the Black Caps; it’s such a shame someone had to walk away without the trophy. Hand on heart, I am overjoyed for Ben and the team, but I am still a New Zealand supporter. I don’t think they would have been able to hold him back. He’s was obviously fatigued but he’s pretty fit at the moment and all the hard work has paid off,” he added.

Ben Stokes’ career has seen a lot of ups and down. From not being able to deliver in crunch moments to getting involved in non-cricketing brawls, he needed to find the right path to success. The World Cup presented him with a perfect platform to show his potential and Stokes grabbed the chance with both hands. The tears of happiness he shed after the triumph narrated an entire story.