Stokes under fire as batting woes deepen after India defeat
England captain Ben Stokes is getting more heat after another weak game with the bat in a huge 336-run loss to India at Edgbaston. India scored over 1,000 runs across two innings, adding more pressure on Stokes during his two-year drop in form.
The 34-year-old got out for a golden duck and then scored just 33. It’s now been two years since his last Test hundred. Since then, his average is only 30.55, and he’s had a hard time with spin bowling, getting out to spinners 16 times in his last 25 dismissals, with an average of 18.43.
Stokes’ choice to bowl first on a flat pitch didn’t work out. Critics, including former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif, have raised questions about his decisions and current form. His rival, Shubman Gill, scored 397 more runs than him in the match, setting a new record.
Even with knee and hamstring problems, Stokes is still bowling and has taken nine wickets this summer. However, many believe trying to stay a full-time all-rounder may be hurting his batting. As England gets ready for the next Test, the pressure on Stokes is growing. He needs to get back in form or face hard questions about doing both roles.
