Ben Stokes had earlier produced a gritty and determined effort for England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, bringing up a hard-earned half-century off 159 balls, the slowest fifty of his Test career. The knock underlined England captain’s intent to bat time and rebuild the innings after early setbacks, even as Australia maintained relentless pressure.
Stokes dug in for long periods, leaving well and absorbing the hostile bowling, before gradually opening up. His innings eventually grew into a marathon stay at the crease, anchoring England’s resistance and forming a crucial partnership that gave the visitors a glimmer of hope in difficult conditions.
However, just when England looked set to extend that recovery, Mitchell Starc delivered a decisive breakthrough. Bowling at 143.6 kmph, Starc produced a sharp nip-backer that Stokes failed to read. Attempting to force the ball through the off side, Stokes left a sizeable gap between bat and pad, allowing the delivery to sneak through and crash into the off stump.
Starc erupted in celebration, punching the air as he ended a vital stand. Stokes, by contrast, was visibly furious with himself — leaping in frustration, tossing his bat aside and walking back angrily. His innings ended on 83 off 198 balls, decorated with eight boundaries, a knock built on patience and resolve but falling short of a defining hundred.
The dismissal proved a turning point, halting England’s momentum and swinging the balance back towards Australia in a gripping Ashes contest at Adelaide.
