Ben Stokes is a name that needs no introduction in the world of cricket. His awe-inspiring performances have made him a stalwart of the England cricket team, and his story is one of determination, resilience, and passion. While his cricketing achievements are well-known, there are some aspects of his life and career that are less familiar. Here are five lesser-known facts about Ben Stokes.
A Kiwi by Birth
Though he's known for his heroics in an England jersey, Stokes was actually born in Christchurch, New Zealand, on June 4, 1991. He moved to England at the age of 12 when his father, Gerard Stokes, a former New Zealand rugby league player, took up a coaching job in the UK. Despite his Kiwi roots, Stokes chose to represent England, the country where he honed his cricketing skills.
Sporting Genes
The sporting talent in Stokes' blood is not limited to cricket. His parents were both accomplished athletes. His father, Gerard Stokes, was a renowned rugby player and coach. His mother, Deborah Stokes, was a cricketer who played in the domestic cricket league in New Zealand. Ben's brother, James Stokes, has also made a name for himself in rugby, playing for the Workington Town Rugby League Club.
Youngest England Player to Achieve a Test Double
In 2015, Stokes became the youngest player ever to score a century for England in the morning session of a test match. But that's not all. In the same year, during the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town, Stokes scored 258 runs from 198 balls, the fastest double century in England's history, and the second-fastest in the world. He was also the youngest England cricketer to achieve this feat.
A Brush with the Law
In 2017, Stokes faced a significant challenge off the field. He was involved in a brawl outside a nightclub in Bristol, which led to him being charged with affray. This incident resulted in him missing the Ashes series in Australia. However, after a trial in 2018, Stokes was acquitted of the charge and made a strong comeback to his cricketing career.
Philanthropy
Away from the cricket field, Stokes has shown a keen interest in charitable work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he donated his cricket gear, including his World Cup and Ashes shirts, for a charity auction. The funds raised went towards two charities: NHS Charities Together, which supports NHS staff and volunteers to care for COVID-19 patients, and national children’s cricket charity Chance to Shine.
Here's Virat Kohli's view on Ben Stokes:
I wasn’t joking about calling Ben Stokes the most competitive bloke I’ve played against. Innings of the highest quality but Australia is too good at the moment 👍
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 2, 2023
Conclusion
Ben Stokes is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and impactful cricketers of his generation. His on-field performances have brought thrill and joy to cricket fans worldwide. However, his journey is not just about cricketing glory. It's also a story of resilience, courage, and generosity. These lesser-known facts about Stokes provide a more profound insight into the man behind the cricketing legend, making his story even more inspiring.
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