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In a whirlwind display of batting prowess, Ben Stokes etched his name into the history books by registering the fastest Test fifty for England in a clinical 10-wicket win over West Indies in the final match of the series. This victory sealed a comprehensive 3-0 whitewash for the hosts.
Ben Stokes on a rampage
Stokes, promoted to open the innings, unleashed a brutal assault on the West Indian bowlers, racing to his half-century in just 24 balls. His innings was a masterclass in power hitting, featuring a barrage of boundaries and maximums that left the opposition stunned. The all-rounder finished unbeaten on 57, showcasing his immense talent with both bat and ball.
This record-breaking knock overshadowed England’s dominant performance throughout the series. The hosts were in imperious form, with their batters and bowlers clicking in unison. The series also marked the emergence of several young English talents who showcased their potential on the big stage.
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The Fastest fifties in Test cricket
Stokes’s blistering innings joins an elite list of the quickest half-centuries in Test cricket. Here’s a look at the top five:
Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan)
The Pakistani maestro holds the record for the fastest Test fifty, achieved in just 21 balls against Australia in 2014. Renowned for his calm and composed batting, Misbah was the backbone of the Pakistan batting lineup for several years. His captaincy was instrumental in Pakistan’s rise as a Test cricket force.
David Warner (Australia)
The aggressive Australian opener occupies the second spot with a 23-ball fifty against Pakistan. Warner’s penchant for attacking cricket has often yielded breathtaking innings, and this particular knock was no exception. One of the most feared openers in world cricket, Warner’s aggressive batting style has often laid the foundation for Australian victories. His ability to score runs quickly has made him a vital cog in the Australian batting order.
Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
A true all-rounder, Kallis was equally adept with bat and ball. His 24-ball fifty against Zimbabwe underlines his versatility and ability to dominate any bowling attack. The generational talent’s consistency and longevity made him one of the greatest all-rounders of all time.
Ben Stokes (England)
Joining this illustrious list, Stokes’ 24-ball fifty against the West Indies highlights his immense talent and ability to change the course of a game with his bat. A dynamic all-rounder, Stokes has become the heart and soul of the England cricket team. His match-winning abilities with both bat and ball have made him one of the most exciting players in the world.
Shane Shillingford (West Indies)
The enigmatic spinner from the Caribbean surprised everyone with a 25-ball fifty at Kingston in the year 2014 against New Zealand. While primarily known for his bowling, Shillingford showcased his batting prowess on this occasion. Shillingford’s ability to contribute with the bat was a valuable asset to the West Indies team.
England’s clean sweep over West Indies is a testament to their dominance in Test cricket. With a young and talented squad, the future looks bright for English cricket. Stokes’s record-breaking innings will be remembered as one of the highlights of the series and a watershed moment in his illustrious career.
