By ABDULLAH 
England’s charismatic captain Ben Stokes delivered a true all-round performance on Day 3 of the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, Manchester. After bagging a vital five-wicket haul in the first innings, the left-hander followed it up with a composed 66-run knock his first half-century of the series before retiring hurt due to severe cramps.
Though initially Ben Stokes seen hobbling and visibly uncomfortable, Ben Stokes later returned to the crease as England continued to dominate the Test match, tightening their grip on both the day and the series.
Walking in after a solid platform was set by Joe Root — who scored a century and surpassed legendary figures in the Test run charts. Ben Stokes showed remarkable composure. He partnered with Root to stitch a valuable century stand, helping England stretch their first-innings lead beyond 130 runs.
His innings of 66 off 116 deliveries included six boundaries and came at a steady strike rate of 56.90. It was a defining knock for Stokes, who had struggled with the bat throughout the series and hadn’t scored a fifty against India in over 15 innings.
Ben Stokes despite his fighting spirit, the toll of his all-round effort began to show. Having bowled 24 overs in the Indian innings and taken 5 wickets, Ben Stokes began experiencing severe cramps during his innings. He attempted to stretch out between deliveries but eventually left the field with a noticeable limp, clutching the back of his leg.
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He retired hurt with England in a strong position at 491-4, replaced by young batter Jamie Smith. However, his exit was only temporary. When India struck back with three quick wickets, reducing England to 528-7, Ben Stokes returned to the crease, showing grit despite clear signs of discomfort.
This match marked only the second time in Ben Stokes’ Test career that he has taken five wickets and scored a half-century in the same game. The previous instance was against the West Indies in 2017, when he claimed 6/22 and scored 60 at Lord’s.
Such performances underscore Ben Stokes’ stature as one of modern cricket’s true all-rounders — a player capable of changing the course of a match with either bat or ball.
According to the laws of cricket, a player retiring hurt is eligible to resume his innings later. The Indian side had a similar instance earlier in this match when Rishabh Pant retired hurt on Day 1 with a foot injury but returned the next day to bat.
Ben Stokes’ precautionary retirement and eventual return follow the same pattern, showcasing the strategic use of this rule in high-stakes Test cricket.
England ended Day 3 in a commanding position, thanks to their strong batting display and dominant bowling on Day 2 which saw India bowled out for 358. With a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, England will look to press home the advantage and potentially seal the series at Old Trafford.
However, the big question remains: will Ben Stokes be fit to continue for the remainder of the Test? While his return to the crease showed courage, managing his workload will be critical as England eyes a series win.
- Ben Stokes retired hurt on 66 due to cramps
- Returned later after England lost quick wickets
- Took 5 wickets in India’s first innings
- First 50 of the series for Stokes
- Formed a crucial stand with Joe Root
- England leads the series 2-1
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