England captain Joe Root praised “freak” Ben Stokes for one of the greatest of all match-winning Test innings and believes the allrounder’s epic knock has helped instil fresh belief in his side that they can now go on to regain the Ashes.
Stokes plundered eight sixes in his astounding innings of 135 that fashioned a wholly unlikely one-wicket win for England on Sunday, bringing the five-match series level at one-all, with everything to play for in the final two Tests.
And Root says: “It was ridiculous, wasn’t it? Ben Stokes is a freak, he’s incredible.
“After Stokes got to 60, 70 he looked like he wasn’t going to get out.
“To win a game on your own from there is just amazing.
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“He does have recent experience of doing it. Just incredible to watch unfold.
“He’s the ultimate team man, will do everything for every single player - that’s why he’s a brilliant vice-captain.
“He drags people with him, so much respect in the dressing room. He stood up, that’s exactly what you want from your leaders.”