ICC names Ben Stokes Test Cricketer of the year

Ben Stokes [Source: Twitter]

In a remarkable turn of events, the International Cricket Council has declared veteran English all-rounder Ben Stokes as the Test Cricketer of the year for 2022. Stokes' marvellous performance in the purest format has rewarded him with the honour. 

The year 2022 turned out to be revolutionary for England in Test cricket. Despite being a ruthless side in white-ball cricket, England fell to the rock-bottom during Joe Root's captaincy in the purest format. The three lions were so horrible that they suffered eleven Test defeats in eighteen outings between February 2021 and March 2022. 

However, their performance in Tests took a dramatic U-turn as soon as Ben Stokes took over the reins from Root. Alongside Brendon McCullum, England's premier all-rounder revolutionised the way of playing Tests through his ultra-aggressive approach. 

The duo used the English batters' ability to maul any kind of bowling on batting-friendly decks as their primary weapon to decimate multiple opponents one after the other. 

Besides this, Stokes' astute leadership grabbed a million eyeballs when England whitewashed Pakistan on lifeless pitches towards the backend of the year. 

Amidst all this, the swashbuckling southpaw showcased his all-round prowess to perfection, garnering 870 runs and scalping 26 wickets in 15 appearances. 

Although he has achieved the zenith in his career, being named the Test cricketer of the year is no mean feat. As far as Stokes is concerned, he must cherish the accolade and continue taking England to new heights going forward. 

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