England clawed one back as they registered a 3-wicket win over Australia in the third Test of the Ashes 2023 which was played at Headingley in Leeds. And captain Ben Stokes was confident that his side can complete a series win.
In what can be called a see-saw match, England barely managed to hang onto their chances as while chasing 251 to win, England slumped to 171-6 but Harry Brook's 75 helped England see off the dangerous Australian bowling.
Then Chris Woakes (32 not out) and Mark Wood (16 not out) managed to keep cool heads and with some luck going their way, took England over the finishing rope.
With this win, the series now stands at 2-1 in favor of Australia, while Stokes and co. aim to become just the second team to win a Test series from 2-0 down after the Don Bradman-inspired 1936-37 Australia side that won the Ashes.
"Yep. No hesitation. Another down to wire game. Nice to get over the line and keep our hopes alive," said Stokes when asked if England can win the series during post-match presentation.
Furthermore, he was full of praise for Chris Woakes and Mark Wood, both of whom were playing their first Test in the Ashes 2023 series.
“Won the toss, we could have batted and bowled. Looked like a good wicket. Saw the way Mitch Marsh batted. Came in and took the game on. The outfield was on the quick side. We had Woody and Woakesy back in and they did well. We picked teams and look how they can impact us in the game. We try to see how they can be influential in the game.
I didn't realize that Woakes hasn't played a Test for so long, he is Mr. Consistent. Having someone who can bat like him batting at 8 helps us. Hope he can do something similar when he plays next,” Stokes said.
“Having someone (Mark Wood) who can bowl at 95 mph is amazing. With the bat, he is just a free spirit. Goes back to the clarity. 24 off 8 balls was a massive swing in the game. Doesn't always come off, but gives you a better chance to succeed. I think about Mo, he always wants to impact the game. He went to Brendon last night and said he wanted to take them on and have a crack at No. 3. Me and Baz just go with the flow,” Stokes added.
The fourth Test of the series will be played in Manchester from July 19 onwards with a gap of nine days in between.
“The next game is very vital. Everyone wants to see good cricket. This nine-day break will help the bodies in a world of good. We love to come here and play cricket for England. [on the Headingley crowd] sensational. The Western Terrace is always amazing. This place has memories that people will always remember and we love playing here,” Stokes signed off.
Mark Wood was named the Player of the Match for his 7 wickets and vital knock of 24 off 8 in the first innings and 16* in the second.
(Sky Sports inputs)
