Pune (Maharashtra) [India] : Following England’s 160-run win against the Netherlands in the 40th match of the ODI World Cup 2023 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Wednesday, left-handed batter Ben Stokes said that it has been a tough World Cup for them.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Stokes said that he is more pleased with the victory than scoring a century.
Talking about Pune’s pitch, the English batter said that it was a nice wicket to bat and that it had some tennis-ball bounce.
Stokes praised Chris Woakes and said that he has been a great cricketer for England and that he proved himself over the past 2-3 years.
“More pleased with the victory (than scoring a century), it has been a tough World Cup for us. It was a nice wicket to bat on and had some tennis-ball bounce. We (Woakes and himself) built a good partnership, whenever there was pressure building I had a look at the scoreboard and reminded myself there was a lot of time remaining (in the innings). Tried to take it deep and cash in later. He (Woakes) is a genuine all-rounder for us, he has been a great cricketer for England over the last 2-3 years and today he proved it,” Stokes said.
Stokes was named the ‘Player of the Match’ after he played a 108-run knock from 84 balls. He smashed six fours and six sixes against Netherlands on Wednesday.