England’s emphatic victory over South Africa in the second test at Old Trafford has set the “benchmark” for the team, captain Ben Stokes said after they defeated the visitors by an innings and 85 runs within three days.
Having taken a first-innings lead of 264, England bowled out South Africa for 179 on Saturday to earn their fifth win in six tests and bounce back from the disappointment of losing the series opener at Lord’s.
Stokes scored 103 in England’s first innings and wicketkeeper Ben Foakes smashed an unbeaten 113, while veteran bowler James Anderson became the leading wicket-taker among pace bowlers across all formats.
“Cricket is about how you bat, bowl and field and I think that the way we batted, bowled and fielded this whole game is like the benchmark of the standards of what we set,” said Stokes.
“I think what we did incredibly well with the bat was assess that we didn’t feel this was a wicket where we could go out and play in the way that we spoke about.
“I think that is real progress for the side.”
The teams will now meet in the series decider at The Oval from Sept. 8
More Stories
Bavuma Ton Leads Proteas To Series Win Over England
Brighton Strike late to knock holders Liverpool out of FA Cup
Djokovic Gave Everything To Overcome Injury – Ivanisevic
Emotional Djokovic Hails Biggest Victory Of His life
Ronaldo’s Saudi Switch Another Symbol Of Chinese Decline
Lakers Fume Over Referee Decision In Overtime Loss To Celtics
Tsitsipas Thriving After Wake-Up Call – McEnroe
Mind Your Language! Wales Coach Gatland Raises Concerns Over Netflix Documentary
Son Hits Double For Tottenham And Casemiro Bags Brace For Man Utd In Cup Wins
Casemiro Scores Twice As Man Utd Beat Reading In FA Cup
Salah Struggling As Liverpool’s Front Three No longer ‘Well-Drilled’ – Klopp
FIA Defends Ben Sulayem After Reported Sexist Comments