Wood And Stokes Propel England To Series Sweep Over West Indies

Mark Wood and Ben Stokes were pivotal as England secured a series sweep against the West Indies at Edgbaston. Wood's remarkable spell saw him take five wickets in just 21 balls, reducing the visitors to 175 all out. Stokes then delivered a swift 57, ensuring England chased down the target of 82 with ease, wrapping up a 3-0 series win.

West Indies began day three at 33-2, with Mikyle Louis (57) and Kavem Hodge (55) both scoring half-centuries in an attempt to mount a comeback. However, their efforts were short-lived as Louis, Jason Holder, and Alick Athanaze fell before lunch, leaving them at 151-5.

Wood's exceptional performance came after lunch when he took five wickets in a single spell for just nine runs. This was the first time in his Test career that he achieved such a feat. His efforts left England needing only 82 runs to win.

Ben Stokes wasted no time in chasing down the target alongside Ben Duckett (25). The duo completed the victory in just 7.2 overs. Stokes' innings was particularly notable as he set a new record for England's fastest Test fifty.

Since 1981, Ian Botham held the record for England's fastest half-century in Test cricket, achieving it in 28 balls. Stokes broke this long-standing record by reaching his fifty in just 24 balls. He led from the front and finished his innings with consecutive sixes.

"You are something else. The fastest EVER Test fifty for England," tweeted England Cricket (@englandcricket) on July 28, 2024.

You are something else. The fastest EVER Test fifty for England

Match Centre: https://t.co/fo5ruo3ub1
#ENGvWI | @BenStokes38 pic.twitter.com/3FRVyOeuYA

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 28, 2024

This victory not only highlighted England's dominance but also showcased individual brilliance from both Wood and Stokes. Their performances ensured that England completed a comprehensive series sweep against the West Indies.

The match will be remembered for Wood's extraordinary bowling spell and Stokes' historic batting achievement. These moments added another chapter to England's rich cricketing history.