Stokes ‘blown away’ by all the support

England

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."

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