- Ben Stokes delivers a record-breaking 182 runs, the highest ODI score by an English batter.
- England secures a decisive 181-run victory, leading the series 2-1.
- Dawid Malan supports with a noteworthy 96 runs.
- New Zealand’s chase falls short, with only Glenn Phillips making a significant contribution of 72 runs.
- The series finale is set for Lord’s, followed by a World Cup encounter in Ahmedabad.
In an exciting showcase of cricketing prowess, Ben Stokes dazzled the pitch, securing a record-breaking 182 runs for England as they nailed a decisive victory over New Zealand by 181 runs. This triumph gives England a 2-1 lead in the four-match ODI series.
Stokes Reclaims His Throne
Having stepped away from the 50-over format a year ago, Stokes returned with unmatched enthusiasm. His 124-ball innings included a staggering nine sixes and 15 fours, making it the highest score by an English batter in the format. His powerful performance allowed England to set a daunting target of 368 runs.
The highest individual score for England in ODIs – a Ben Stokes masterclass at The Oval 🤩 #ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/Ngr5niImlS
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 13, 2023
His monumental score saw him surpass the previous record held by Jason Roy, who had made 180 runs against Australia in 2018. Roy, present at the venue, graciously acknowledged Stokes’ accomplishment with a smile despite being sidelined due to back spasms.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Stokes. Despite the impressive score, his chronic knee issues were evident, causing moments of pain throughout his innings. Despite these challenges, the Test captain showcased adaptability, dealing effortlessly with pace and spin.
Supporting Acts
Dawid Malan, standing shoulder to shoulder with Stokes, contributed a polished 96 runs as an opener. Their 199-run partnership was a sight to behold, stabilizing England’s position after an early loss of two wickets.
Dawid Malan is caught behind down the leg-side four short of a century đź’”
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 13, 2023
A successful review breaks a 199-run partnership!https://t.co/X6A3p5eNXa | #ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/Szv8LBpHo1
On the bowling front, Chris Woakes shined, picking up three crucial wickets in the early phase of New Zealand’s innings, thereby hampering their momentum right from the start.
New Zealand’s Response
Despite Glenn Phillips’ brave 72 off 76 balls, New Zealand could only muster 187 runs, falling short by a significant margin. Their chase never looked promising, with the initial overs seeing a collapse they couldn’t recover from.
Upcoming Encounters
The two teams will face off again in the final match of the series at Lord’s. The stakes will be even higher as they’ll meet again for the World Cup curtain-raiser in Ahmedabad in just over two weeks.