Ben Stokes made a remarkable return to bowling after eight months by dismissing India captain Rohit Sharma with his very first ball on Day 2 of the fifth India vs England Test at Dharamsala on March 8 (Friday). Following a mammoth partnership of 271 runs between Rohit and Shubman Gill, both of whom scored centuries, Stokes took matters into his own hands. Stokes needed just one delivery to secure England's first breakthrough of the day, leaving England coach Brendon McCullum nothing short of astonished following the breakthrough moment.
Stokes bowled a length ball angled into Rohit, which subtly moved away to outsmart the Indian captain. The delivery managed to elude the outside edge, ultimately dislodging the bails by striking the off-stump.
Watch The Rohit Sharma Dismissal Here
The wicket left an expression of bewilderment on Brendon McCullum’s face, who was sitting in the dressing room at the time of Rohit’s dismissal.
Here’s How Brendon McCullum Reacted:
After conceding 11 runs in the first over post Lunch, James Anderson engaged in a discussion with his skipper. Following the long conversation, Stokes decided to bring himself into the attack.
First Bowling Stint For Ben Stokes After Ashes 2023
This was the first time in eight months that Ben Stokes returned to bowling. The all-rounder's last bowling stint took place during the second Ashes Test at Lord’s that spanned from June 28 to July 2 of the previous year. Subsequently, a knee injury surfaced, necessitating surgery and keeping him away from bowling.
India On Top Despite Rohit & Gill's Wicket
Following Rohit's dismissal at 103, Gill (110) quickly fell prey to James Anderson. The seasoned England pacer has now reached a total of 699 Test wickets. Despite Rohit and Gill’s wicket, India are still in a commanding position as they have already stretched the lead past 130 runs after 78 overs as their score stands at 352-3, with Sarfaraz Khan (40*) and Devdutt Padikkal (36*) still batting.