Stokes Shines with Four Wickets

Ben Stokes delivered a masterclass on the pitch, snaring four wickets for just 70 runs and surpassing 250 Test wickets in the nail-biting England vs. New Zealand clash. While New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell and Mitch Santner looked furious after being dismissed — including a controversial edge caught off a review — Stokes dominated the morning with three wickets for 13 runs, the only English bowler making consistent inroads on a sluggish surface. A dropped catch by Jamie Smith nearly cost England dearly, but Stokes’ relentless spell kept New Zealand’s momentum in check. Though Tom Blundell and Nathan Smith held firm at 18 and 4 not out respectively, Stokes’ brilliance ensured England didn’t let New Zealand cruise — proving once again why he’s England’s most vital weapon. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/34fb0522bb9c9322