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Ben Stokes’ reputation has largely been built on his exploits in Test cricket, but his contribution to England’s one-day success has been equally significant. Across more than a decade in ODI cricket, Stokes evolved into a complete match-winner capable of influencing games with bat, ball and in the field. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations played a major role in England’s transformation into one of the most formidable limited-overs sides in the world.
The finest ODI performances of Stokes’ career are not necessarily his highest scores or best bowling figures. Instead, they are innings and all-round displays that shaped major contests and delivered results when England needed them most. These performances underline why he remains one of the most influential ODI cricketers of his generation.
This remains the most important ODI performance of Ben Stokes’ career. Playing in England’s first men’s World Cup final since 1992, Stokes found himself at the centre of one of the greatest matches the format has ever witnessed.
Chasing 242 against New Zealand at Lord’s, England stumbled to 86 for 4 before Stokes assumed responsibility for the chase. He paced his innings expertly, balancing caution with aggression as wickets continued to fall around him. His unbeaten 84 from 98 balls guided England to a tie, with a dramatic overthrow incident helping keep the hosts alive. Stokes then returned to score crucial runs in the Super Over as England secured their maiden ODI World Cup title.
The innings was not about dominance but control. Under immense pressure and with the stakes at their highest, Stokes produced a performance that altered the course of English cricket history.
England’s record-breaking ODI side produced several extraordinary batting displays during the summer of 2018, and Stokes played a central role in one of the most memorable. Facing Australia at The Oval, England posted 481 for 6, which remains one of the highest totals in ODI history.
Stokes contributed a superb century, scoring 102 from just 61 deliveries. His innings featured aggressive strokeplay from the outset and provided the perfect finishing touch to England’s assault on the Australian attack. He struck six fours and 11 sixes, accelerating dramatically during the latter stages of the innings.
Although several batters made substantial contributions, Stokes’ explosive hundred stood out for its sheer power and momentum. It highlighted the attacking style that helped redefine England’s approach to ODI cricket during that era.
One of Stokes’ most complete ODI innings came during a crucial group-stage encounter in the 2017 Champions Trophy. England found themselves under pressure against Australia after early wickets disrupted the chase of 278.
Stokes responded with a composed and highly effective innings of 89 from 76 deliveries. Rather than relying solely on power, he combined intelligent strike rotation with timely boundary hitting to rebuild the innings. His partnership with Eoin Morgan steadied England before he accelerated in the closing stages to place the hosts firmly in control.
England eventually completed a convincing victory, securing a place in the semi-finals. While it may not receive the same attention as his World Cup heroics, the innings demonstrated Stokes’ maturity as a one-day batter and his ability to adapt his approach according to the demands of the situation.
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