On This Day in 2019: Ben Stokes' Headingley masterclass stunned Australia

In what is regarded as one of the greatest Test knocks of all time, star English all-rounder Ben Stokes turned superhero for his side on August 25, 2019. Taking on Australia in the third Ashes 2019 Test, Ben Stokes played one of the most exceptional innings ever seen to propel his side to a win from the depths of despair.

After Australia’s brilliant performance with the bat, England had a target of 359 runs to chase down to win the third Ashes Test. However, the side got off to a horrid start as openers Rory Burns and Jason Roy were sent packing for seven and eight runs, respectively. 

Skipper Joe Root did show resilience to stabilize the innings with a knock of 77 runs, and despite Joe Denly adding 50 runs on the board, all credit goes to Ben Stokes for his mammoth stroke-making that helped England secure the win.

It is worth noting that England were struggling during the run chase, so much so that they were 286-9 at one stage of the game, requiring 73 runs to win the game with just one wicket in hand. 

That is exactly when Stokes decided to take matters into his own hands. Playing an incredible knock of 135* runs in 291 deliveries, Stokes made sure that he won the game for his side. However, amidst Stokes’ heroics, the contribution of the last man, Jack Leach, cannot go unnoticed. 

Playing 17 deliveries, Leach was unbeaten at one run as he consistently handled the aggressive bowling attack from the Aussies and constantly gave the strike to Stokes. The English all-rounder, who was breathing fire at Headingley, scored 75 runs in the last 42 balls that he faced, chasing down the target. Stokes helped England win the game by one wicket and pour life into the Ashes 2019. 

Eventually, the series was drawn 2-2 as England levelled the affair after winning the fifth and final Test. In what is regarded as one of the most momentous innings in Test cricket, Ben Stokes has time and again reminded the world why he is one of the best that England has to offer.