Virat Kohli played a brilliant knock in the first innings: Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes was the man who delivered a killing blow in the first Test. He pinned the invincible Virat Kohli in front of the stumps and literally ended India’s hopes of chasing down the total of 194 runs. He eventually went on dealt the opposition with a couple more blows including the one which sealed the deal for his team. England won the hard-fought game by 31 runs. However, Stokes was all praise of the Indian skipper who smashed 149 runs in the first innings to stage a comeback for India.

Kohli also tried his best in the second attempt by scoring 51 runs but the other batsmen failed to come to the terms yet again and they conceded a lead in the series. The hosts had a little more firepower in their line-up which made the difference in the end.

Ben Stokes was superb in the second innings as he ended up with the figures of 4/40. He was delighted to win the game and was proud to be the part of the group. But he didn’t forget to applaud Virat Kohli’s gigantic effort in the first innings.

“It was great, it is great to be part of this game. Virat played a brilliant knock in the first innings but moments like that [getting him out] change games. I am proud to be part of his group,” he was quoted as saying by Sky Sports during the post-match interview.

Sam Curran‘s knock was the turning point

Ben Stokes was all praise of the 20-year-old Sam Curran who was just exceptional only in the second Test of his career. His knock of 63 runs in the second innings will be ranked as one of the best counter-attacks in the recent history.

“I thought we were a bit behind yesterday but for Sam Curran to play the way he did was a real turning point. We have had some stick recently and beating a team like India has probably closed a few mouths. Winning tight games will give us heaps of confidence,” he further added.

Stokes is set to miss the second Test match which will be played at Lord’s as he has to attend the Court trial for his involvement in the Bristol incident last year.

[interaction id=”5b655f06afc9e4ac681ca19b”]

Keep following CricTracker for more news and updates