RAJKOT — England's Joe Root admitted he was "panicking" watching Ben Stokes bowl marathon spells during the thrilling third-Test victory over India but hailed the captain’s resilience as a "great sign he trusts his body again."
Root, speaking after England’s remarkable 28-run win in Rajkot, revealed his concern as Stokes sent down 31 overs across both innings—his heaviest workload since knee surgery last November. The England skipper, who had previously restricted himself to part-time bowling, delivered crucial breakthroughs, including the wicket of Rohit Sharma in India’s second innings.
Root’s Anxiety and Stokes’ Resurgence
"I was panicking the whole time," Root confessed with a laugh. "Seeing him bowl those long spells was nerve-wracking, but it’s a testament to how far he’s come. A year ago, he could barely walk up stairs without discomfort."
Stokes’ return to full-fledged bowling marks a pivotal moment in his recovery. Since his surgery, he had managed just 29 overs in eight Tests before Rajkot. His relentless spells—including a 12-over stint on Day 4—defied expectations and showcased his trademark grit.
The Turning Point: Stokes’ Impact
Stokes’ contributions were pivotal in England’s comeback after conceding a 126-run first-innings deficit. His fiery spell on Day 3 removed Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, while his marathon effort on Day 4 included the key dismissal of Ravindra Jadeja.
Root emphasized the psychological lift Stokes’ bowling provided: "When your leader is willing to put his body on the line, it lifts everyone. The way he charged in, even when exhausted, reminded us of the Ben Stokes of 2019."
Key Moments from Stokes’ Spell
- Over 78-80 (Day 3): Broke India’s second-wicket stand by removing Gill (91) with a sharp bouncer.
- Over 102 (Day 4): Trapped Jadeja LBW with a reverse-swinging yorker.
- Final Spell: Bowled 7 overs unchanged under scorching heat, conceding just 12 runs.
Medical Milestone and Future Prospects
England’s medical staff confirmed Stokes reported no soreness post-match, a "significant milestone" in his rehab. Root noted: "He’s not just back—he’s back with the same intensity. That’s huge for our Ashes plans and beyond."
Stokes’ resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time. With Ollie Robinson struggling for fitness and James Anderson managing workloads, his bowling adds critical depth to England’s attack.
Broader Implications for England
Former England captain Nasser Hussain observed: "This isn’t just about one Test. Stokes’ bowling unlocks England’s balance. They can now play four seamers plus Root’s spin, which is a game-changer in India."
The victory, achieved despite India’s first-innings dominance, was fueled by Stokes’ leadership and physical defiance. His 31 overs were the most by an England captain in Asia since Alastair Cook in 2016.
Conclusion: A Captain Leading by Example
Root summed up the sentiment in the dressing room: "Ben’s always been our heartbeat, but seeing him bowl like this—pain-free, fearless—it’s infectious. We’ve got our proper captain back, in every sense."
As England prepare for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Stokes’ restored confidence with the ball has reshaped the series narrative. For Root and the team, it’s a reminder of their leader’s unparalleled ability to inspire—both through words and weary limbs.