BIRMINGHAM AFP: Ben Stokes took three wickets on Saturday, including the prize scalp of India captain Virat Kohli, as England won the first Test by 31 runs in a thrilling finish at Edgbaston.
The all-rounder, who could miss next week’s second Test of a five-match series at Lord’s because of a court trial on a charge of affray starting Monday, took two wickets in an over including that of Kohli.
Stokes ended the match, England’s 1000th Test, when he had Hardik Pandya (31) caught at first slip by Alastair Cook with India bowled out for 162, having been set 194 to win.
Stokes finished with innings figures of four for 40 in 14.2 overs.
However, fellow England all-rounder Sam Curran was named man-of-the-match after starring with both bat and ball.
That England had a target of 194 to defend was largely down to the 20-year-old Curran’s 63, his maiden Test fifty in just his second match at this level rescuing the hosts from the depths of 87 for seven.
Curran’s innings came just a day after the Surrey left-arm swing bowler’s Test-best haul of four for 74 during India’s first innings of 274 that featured a brilliant 149 by Kohli -- his maiden Test century in England.
An elated Stokes told Sky Sports: “Virat played a brilliant knock in the first innings but moments like that (getting him out) change games.
“I am proud to be part of his group. I thought we were a bit behind yesterday (Friday) but for Sam Curran to play the way he did was a real turning point.”
A stunned Curran added: “I can’t take it all in, it is all very special.”
For England captain Joe Root there was the relief of seeing his side win the first Test of a series after a run of three straight defeats in campaign openers against Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan.
“I am thrilled, it was a fantastic team performance,” said Root. “I asked the guys to play with passion and show belief. If we did that, we would give ourselves a chance.”