‘Bhai retirement leke waapis aaya tha’ – Fans react as Ben Stokes gets out on just 5 runs while chasing 400 runs in ODI World Cup 2023 clash against South Africa

England’s star allrounder Ben Stokes finally played his first match of the ODI World Cup 2023 in the 20th encounter of the tournament against South Africa at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on October 21. The South African side were asked to bat first after which they put up a monumental total of 399 runs on the scoreboard.

While pursuing the target, England faced early setbacks. However, due to their impressive batting lineup, there was optimism that they could recover from the initial losses. Both the team and fans held great expectations for Ben Stokes, but regrettably, he was dismissed for a mere 5 runs in the 9th over of the innings, falling victim to Kagiso Rabada’s bowling. Disappointed supporters took to social media to vent their frustration, directing their criticism toward the star all-rounder.

Poor bowling performance by England

Talking about the match so far, England won the toss and chose to field. The decision proved fruitful when their seamer, Reece Topley, swiftly removed the dangerous Quinton de Kock with only the second ball of the innings, setting the stage for an intense contest. Topley eventually claimed three wickets, but it was the partnership between Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen that stole the limelight.

Hendricks and Van der Dussen put on an impressive 121-run stand for the second wicket, leaving England searching for answers. However, Adil Rashid managed to break the partnership, dismissing Van der Dussen for a well-fought 60. Hendricks, who had been brought into the side in place of an ailing South Africa captain, Temba Bavuma, dazzled with his powerful strokeplay, eventually departing for a remarkable 85 off 75 balls.

Aiden Markram and David Miller followed, but it was Heinrich Klaasen who turned the tables. Klaasen’s blazing innings, which included a breathtaking 31-ball century, completely shifted the momentum in South Africa’s favour. He finished with a scintillating 109 from 67 balls, his fourth ODI century, and partnered with all-rounder Marco Jansen to amass a staggering 151-run stand from just 76 deliveries. This formidable partnership propelled South Africa to a colossal total of 399 runs, setting up a challenging target for England in an exhilarating encounter.

Here’s how fans reacted: