Stokes ‘blown away’ by all the support
England allrounder Ben Stokes says he was overwhelmed by the support he received after conceding 24 runs in the final over to hand West Indies victory in the World T20 final.
Windies allrounder Carlos Brathwaite smashed Stokes for four consecutive sixes when the Caribbean side needed 19 runs from the final six balls in one of the most astonishing finishers to a cricket game.
Stokes, who was visibly emotional on the field when the winning runs were scored, admits he thought he would feel the backlash when returning home but it has been the opposite.
In an interview with The Times, Stokes said: "I wasn't exactly dreading coming home but I was a little worried what reception I might get, but I've been blown away by the support.
"I was expecting a lot more criticism because even on good days there is always the odd person who will get stuck in on Twitter."
Stokes has always played his cricket in a combative nature, taking the game to his opponent and not shy to have a word if necessary.
The big-hitting left-handed batsman says he enjoys the confrontational side of the game as it brings out the best in him.
The Durham player said: "I'm always thinking about the private battle, even in the field. I'm always trying to be better than the other person I'm against.
"There are guys that you look at and you want to really bowl at them or bat against them, certain guys who really get your juices flowing."
Latest
-
NewsEngland to make another public stand against discrimination at second Test
The draw with New Zealand at Lord’s was overshadowed by the emergence of historical racist and sexist tweets from debutant Ollie Robinson.
-
NewsWorcestershire Rapids claim unlikely draw with Nottinghamshire Outlaws
Spinners Moeen Ali and Ish Sodhi hauled the Rapids back into the contest.
-
NewsHeather Knight feels current situation a reminder of players’ responsibilities
Seamer Ollie Robinson has been suspended by the England and Wales Cricket Board.
-
NewsJoe Root: Uncomfortable week won’t stop commitment to fighting discrimination
England will wear anti-discrimination t-shirts ahead of the second Test.
-
NewsEmily Arlott rise shows way forward for England youngsters – Heather Knight
The 23-year-old was one of 41 female cricketers awarded a full-time domestic contract late last year by the England and Wales Cricket Board.
-
NewsNew Zealand captain Kane Williamson ruled out of second Test with England
Williamson has been managing a tendon injury in his left elbow for several months, with Tom Latham stepping up to lead the team out on Thursday.
-
NewsEmily Arlott handed England call-up for India Test a few days after hat-trick
England Women’s one-off four-day match against India starts on June 16 in Bristol.
-
NewsBen Duckett keen to be main man as Nottinghamshire prepare to defend Blast title
The batsman struck the winning runs in last year’s final.
-
NewsReturning fans can bring fun back to Vitality Blast – Laurie Evans
The Surrey batsman is excited for the competition to begin after a challenging 12 months for cricket.
-
NewsNew Zealand captain Kane Williamson an injury doubt for second England Test
Trent Boult is expected to play after his belated arrival in the country.