ICC World Cup 2019: The Aim Was to Get 300-310 - Ben Stokes

England cruised to a convincing win of 104 runs in the opener of the World Cup 2019 against South Africa. England’s all-rounder Ben Stokes was the hero of the match as the southpaw batsman scored 89 runs from 79 balls. The left-hander scored nine fours in his innings. It was a fine knock from the left-hander which helped England in getting to a par score of 311 runs.

Read More: ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 (Match 1): England vs South Africa – Statistical Highlights

Furthermore, Ben Stokes was able to carry his batting form into the field. Stokes grabbed a stunner when he caught Andile Phehlukwayo at deep square leg. In fact, Stokes claimed that he misjudged the catch as he came forward to take it. However, he was quick to get back to take the jaffa.

Stokes had a fantastic day.

Ben Stokes said while talking in the post-match presentation, “I was a little further in than I should have been. I panicked a bit I guess but it stuck. I shouldn’t have been there (initially) and it was probably a regulation catch but I was in the wrong position. (On the pitch) The message from the batsmen in the middle was that it was a tricky pitch to bat on, so the aim was to get to 300-310. Maybe 330. I was looking to just pace it. The hard length was difficult and obviously, the slower balls and all”.

“Towards the end, they (SA bowlers) were really hard to get away. I guess psychologically getting over the 300-run mark really helped. And then, our bowlers knew what to do and they executed well. (On the crowd support) It was unbelievable, excellent turnaround for the first World Cup and hope it continues”.

Meanwhile, Ben Stokes also effected the run-out of Dwaine Pretorius when he gave a bullet throw from the deep. Moreover, Stokes scalped two wickets to be adjudged the Man of the match. Thus, the talisman all-rounder had a fine day at work as he ticked all the boxes.

Read More: All Teams Are Scared Because Of Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed

Stokes wasn’t in the best of forms and he would like to carry the same touch in the coming matches. England will next take on Pakistan at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on June 3.