AFP, MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New ZealandNew Zealand yesterday targeted the wicket of “freak” Ben Stokes as they battle to get back into the first Test against England at Mount Maunganui, New Zealnd. The honors were even when the New Zealand-born Stokes went to the middle just before tea on the first day with England 120-3. However, by stumps, with Stokes in form, the score had doubled and England is to resume today on 241-4, with the 28-year-old all-rounder unbeaten on 67. He’s a bit of a freak at times,” New Zealand short-ball specialist Neil Wagner said after Stokes clubbed his bouncers four times to the boundary. Stokes has tormented New Zealand this year since his key role in England’s nail-biting victory on boundary countback in the 50-over World Cup final in July.

Source: Taipei Times November 21, 2019 15:56 UTC