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The man of grand stage Ben Stokes once again became the match hero to help England taste the World Cup title. Jos Buttler-led England won the T20 World Cup 2022 after Stokes' match-winning 52 off 49 guided them to a convincing five-wicket victory over Pakistan on Sunday's final at the MCG.
Excellent bowling in particular from Adil Rashid and Sam Curran held Pakistan to just 137/8, and England overcame some nervy moments in the chase to win their second T20 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Stokes, who blasted five fours and a six in his crucial knock, credited Ireland's blip which gave England an early jolt in the tournament which actually turned in their own favour since they never looked back from then and went on to clinch the coveted title.
Ireland handed a five-run defeat to England on October 26 in the Group 1's Super 12 stage.
“With that (defeat to Ireland) being so early in the competition we obviously had to address it, say what had to be said and then let it go. In tournaments like these you can't carry baggage with you, that was a little blip on the way, credit to Ireland for turning up and beating us, but the best teams learn from their mistakes and not let it affect them,” Stokes said after the match.
Stokes was also all praise for Adil Rashid and Sam Curran who ripped through the Pakistan's batting line-up and played an instrumental role in England's win.
“In finals especially when chasing.. you probably forget all the hard work before that, how we bowled, Adil Rashid and Sam Curran won us the game. It was a tricky wicket and one that you never felt in, so to restrict them to 130-odd bowlers have to take a lot of credit for that. Pretty good evening. Representing your country in World Cups is amazing.. but it has been a good one,” Stokes further added.
In the biggest game of his young career, Curran's 3/12 and 15 dot balls were key in restricting Pakistan to a score of just 137. Along with Rashid (2/22), England's bowling attack set their star batting order up to go and win the game, which they just about managed.
Stokes comes up trumps again
Stokes, one of England's main men over recent years, came up huge for his country yet again with a vital innings to help them to victory.
Coming in with England 32-2 after 3.3 overs, Stokes' first ever T20I half-century came at the perfect time to add another historic performance to his already impressive resume.
