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[Watch] Stokes Shatters England’s Hopes; Lahiru Kumara Puts Final Nail In The Coffin

image-lo73rsddBen Stokes after his wicket (AP Photos)

There were many incidents in the past where Ben Stokes single-handedly recovered England’s early troubles, and converted them into success. However, on Thursday, it did not happen during England’s do-or-die World Cup match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

Opting to bat at a batting-friendly M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the defending champions had a plan to go berserk against a Wanindu Hasaranga-less Sri Lanka attack. Things, however, went south right from the beginning, and eventually they were knocked over for 156 in just 33.2 overs.

While England batters lost their wickets like packs of cards, Ben Stokes remained firm from on end. At some point, it felt like the English all-rounder would pull off another masterclass in Bengaluru. However, it did not convert in reality, as he fell after a gritty 73-ball 43. 

Coming to bowl the 31st over, Lahiru Kumara bowled a short delivery to Stokes, who went for a pull to start the over with a bang. However, the timing was not there, and thus, it did not go for distance. Placed at deep mid-wicket, substitute fielder Dushan Hemantha took an excellent catch near the boundary line to help his side get the most anticipated wicket.

Watch Ben Stokes' Wicket Video Here

Kumara was pumped up after the dismissal, and rightly so, as Stokes started to walk back to the pavilion after a brilliant knock.