“Jesus, guy has sort of probably changed the game a lot”- Ollie Pope hails Ben Stokes ahead of his 100th Test at Rajkot.

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA – FEBRUARY 01: England captain Ben Stokes chats with head coach Brendon McCullum and Ollie Pope after a look at the pitch during England practice ahead of the second test match at ACA-VDCA Stadium on February 01, 2024 in Visakhapatnam, India. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

In a notable development, the upcoming Rajkot Test is poised to mark a significant milestone for England’s dynamic captain, Ben Stokes. This match will signify Stokes’ entry into the prestigious centurion club, having participated in 100 matches in the format. Stokes’ journey as a genuine all-rounder has been marked by challenges, demanding both physically and mentally.

Nevertheless, amidst these trials, the 32-year-old has emerged as one of England’s foremost match-winners, with an impressive track record of outstanding performances. Ollie Pope, Stokes’ teammate, has lauded his captain’s impending achievement, highlighting Stokes’ remarkable ability to excel under pressure and demonstrate true leadership on the cricketing stage.

Pope said“It’s unbelievable. For anyone to play 100 tests is an unbelievable experience. And think he’s obviously had his highs and his lows in his career, but what he’s done since he’s been captain has been amazing and there’s so many sort of special moments that you can look back on his career and think, Jesus, guy has sort of probably changed the game a lot in a lot of respects, and he just got away of bringing out the very best of him when it means the most to the team.”