Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes made his professional List A debut for Durham in 2009, taking a wicket with his third delivery, followed by his first-class debut against the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 2010 where he scored a half-century. That same year, he scored his maiden first-class century against Nottinghamshire. Stokes achieved his One Day International (ODI) debut in 2011, his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut in 2011, and his Test debut in 2013. He was a key member of the Durham team that won the 2013 County Championship and was named Man of the Match in the 2014 Royal London One-Day Cup final at Lord’s.

Further industry recognition in 2019 included the prestigious ICC Award for Best Men’s Cricketer and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, solidifying his status as a world-class all-rounder. Throughout his career, Stokes has set multiple record-breaking achievements, including the Test world record for most runs in an innings at number six with 258 runs against South Africa in 2016. He also holds the highest sixth-wicket stand in Tests, a monumental 399 runs achieved with Jonny Bairstow. In 2022, Stokes was appointed captain of England’s Test team, a role where he has since demonstrated transformative leadership.

In February 2023, he set a new Test career record for the total number of sixes hit. His recent milestones continue to underscore his enduring impact on the sport. On February 15, 2024, Stokes played his 100th Test match against India, a significant career landmark. Just months later, in July 2024, he further cemented his legacy by setting the record for England’s fastest Test half-century against the West Indies.

Ben Stokes remains a defining figure in international cricket, celebrated for his dynamic all-round capabilities and inspiring captaincy.