Ben Stokes OBE (born 4 June 1991) is an English international cricketer who is the captain of the England Test team[2] and plays for the England team in ODIs and T20Is.[3] Stokes is regarded as one of England’s greatest all-rounders in the history of the sport.[4] In domestic cricket, he represents Durham and has played in multiple Twenty20 leagues around the world. He was part of the England team that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup.
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Photo |  |
| Full Name | Benjamin Andrew Stokes |
| Birthdate | June 4, 1991 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 33 years old |
| Birthplace | Christchurch, New Zealand |
| Family | |
| Father | Gerard Stokes (former rugby league player and coach) |
| Mother | Deborah Stokes |
| Wife | Clare Ratcliffe (married in 2017) |
| Children | Layton and Libby |
| Hobbies | |
| Gaming | Enjoys playing video games to unwind |
| Fitness | Engages in various forms of exercise, including gym sessions and yoga |
| Music | Loves listening to a wide range of music genres to relax and motivate himself before matches |
| Holidays and Leisure | |
| Exotic Destinations | Travels to destinations like the Maldives and New Zealand |
| Family Getaways | Enjoys taking family trips to relax and create memories |
| Adventure and Thrill | Participates in adventurous activities like skydiving and scuba diving |
| Balancing Family and Fame | Prioritizes spending quality time with his family despite his busy schedule, often sharing glimpses of family life on social media |
The Man Behind the Legend
Early Life and Personal
Born on June 4, 1991, in Christchurch, New Zealand, Benjamin Andrew Stokes moved to England at the age of 12 when his father, Gerard Stokes, took up a coaching role. Ben’s early days in Cumbria were marked by a love for cricket that saw him rise quickly through the ranks.
- Family: Ben’s parents, Gerard and Deborah, have always been his pillars of support. Gerard, a former rugby league player and coach, influenced Ben’s competitive spirit.
- Marriage: In 2017, Ben married Clare Ratcliffe, and the couple has two children, Layton and Libby. The Stokes family is often seen cheering him on from the stands.
- Hobbies: Off the field, Ben enjoys playing golf, spending time with his family, and, believe it or not, he’s quite the cook!
Career Beginnings of Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes’ career took off when he joined the Durham County Cricket Club. His aggressive style and knack for game-changing performances soon caught the eyes of selectors.
- Domestic Cricket: Ben made his debut for Durham in 2009, and it wasn’t long before he was making headlines with his all-round performances.
- First International Call-Up: In 2011, Ben made his ODI debut against Ireland. Though his initial foray into international cricket was a bit rocky, it was clear that he had immense potential.
Stokes in International Cricket
Test Matches
Ben Stokes has been a cornerstone of the England Test team since his debut in 2013 against Australia. His ability to swing the ball and play crucial innings has made him a fan favourite.
- Ashes 2013: Stokes scored his maiden Test century in Perth during the Ashes series, proving his mettle against fierce competition.
- Headingley 2019: Arguably one of the greatest innings in Test history, Stokes’ 135* against Australia at Headingley ensured a dramatic one-wicket victory for England.
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
Stokes’ ODI career has been nothing short of spectacular. Known for his explosive batting and handy bowling, he’s played a key role in many of England’s triumphs.
- World Cup 2019: Ben was the hero of the final, scoring 84* to tie the match against New Zealand and then excelling in the Super Over to help England clinch their first World Cup.
T20 Matches
In T20s, Ben’s versatility shines through. Whether it’s smashing sixes or taking crucial wickets, he’s a game-changer.
- T20 World Cup 2016: Although England lost to the West Indies, Ben’s performances throughout the tournament were noteworthy.
- IPL Stints: Ben has played for Rising Pune Supergiants and Rajasthan Royals, with some memorable performances, including a century against Gujarat Lions in 2017.
Records and Achievements
Ben Stokes has set numerous records, thanks to his all-round abilities.
- Fastest Double Century: In 2016, he scored the fastest double century by an English player, off just 163 balls, against South Africa.
- Most Runs in a Test Innings at Number Six: His 258 against South Africa is the highest score by a Test batsman at this position.
Awards and Recognitions
- Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World: Stokes was named the leading cricketer in the world in 2020 by Wisden.
- BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2019: His World Cup heroics and Ashes performances earned him this prestigious award.
Conclusion
Ben Stokes is more than just a cricketer; he’s an icon who has inspired countless fans around the world. From his early days in New Zealand to becoming England’s hero, his journey is a testament to his talent, hard work, and resilience. Whether he’s smashing boundaries or taking crucial wickets, Ben Stokes continues to leave an indelible mark on the cricketing world. So, here’s to many more unforgettable moments from this cricketing superstar!
England National Cricket Team: Players of T20 Worldcup 2024
Meet to Our Whole England Cricket Team
FAQs About Ben Stokes
What are some of Ben Stokes’ career highlights?
Ben’s career is filled with highlights, but the standout moments include his 2019 World Cup final performance, his 135* at Headingley, and his fastest double century against South Africa.
How has Ben Stokes performed in the IPL?
Ben has had a significant impact in the IPL, especially with his century for Rising Pune Supergiants in 2017 and consistent performances for Rajasthan Royals.
What records does Ben Stokes hold?
Among his many records, the fastest double century by an English player and the highest score by a number six batsman in Test cricket are particularly notable.
How does Ben Stokes balance his personal life with his cricket career?
Ben credits his family’s support for helping him balance his career and personal life. He often shares moments with his wife and children on social media, showing a softer side away from the cricket field.
By: Sportzbiz