When Virat Kohli Called Ben Stokes 'The Most Competitive Bloke'

image-lrt88cwuKohli, Stokes have a tremendous respect for each other

In the ongoing first Test at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad, England Test captain Ben Stokes once again proved why he's one of the best cricketers in the world with a remarkable innings, guiding England to a total of 246 in the first innings. 

The team was in trouble, and once again, England's skipper bailed out the team, much like he did last year during the Lord’s Test against Australia. It was such an incredible knock that Virat Kohli was forced to praise Stokes.

During the second Ashes Test against Australia, England faced a challenging situation with four wickets down for just 45 runs while chasing a substantial target of 371. Stokes, however, emerged as the beacon of hope for England as he launched a counter-attack against the Australian bowlers, crafting a scintillating century. 

Despite lacking substantial support from his teammates, Stokes fought like lone warrior and smashed a monumental 155 runs off 214 balls. This outstanding knock, laced with nine boundaries and as many sixes, was a testament to his power-hitting skills.

The innings, although valiant, ultimately couldn't secure a victory for England, as they were bowled out for 327 on the fifth day of the Test. Stokes' aggressive approach was curtailed by Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood, who dismissed him with a well-directed short delivery.  Despite the loss, Stokes' phenomenal performance did not go unnoticed, earning accolades from various quarters.

Talismanic India batter Kohli took to Twitter to laud Stokes for his exceptional innings. Kohli acknowledged Stokes as the most competitive opponent he has played against and commended the quality of the innings.

“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 posted on 'X' in July last year.

Stokes emerged as the sole half-centurion for England on the opening day of the first Test in Hyderabad, where the rest of the English batters struggled against spin. Playing his 98th Test match, Stokes found himself running out of partners, reminiscent of a similar situation last year at Lord’s during his innings of 70 runs. His contribution of 70 runs, crafted in just 88 balls and adorned with six fours and three sixes, played an important role in England's recovery from a precarious position of 137/6 to a final total of 246/10.

As the first day ended, India are in a commanding position at 119/1, with Yashasvi Jaiswal tormenting the England bowlers with an impressive unbeaten knock of 76*. Stokes' contributions with the bat stood out in an otherwise challenging situation for England in the ongoing Test match.