Stokes Backs Wood to Break 100mph Barrier in Test Cricket
England captain Ben Stokes has expressed confidence that Mark Wood could become the first bowler to exceed 100mph (161km/h) in a Test match. Stokes praised Wood’s remarkable pace during the second Test against the West Indies, where Wood reached a top speed of 97.1mph.
Wood’s Impressive Performance: Wood’s high-speed deliveries played a crucial role in England’s dominant 241-run victory over the West Indies at Trent Bridge. Although Wood only took two wickets in the match, his pace significantly impacted the opposition, benefiting his teammates, especially off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who claimed 5-41 in the second innings. Wood’s influence was further felt when he fractured West Indies’ Kevin Sinclair’s forearm with a blistering bouncer.
Current Records: Australia’s Mitchell Starc holds the record for the fastest delivery in Test cricket at 99.6mph, achieved against New Zealand in 2015. However, Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar set the international record across all formats with a delivery clocked at 100.2mph against England in 2003.
Stokes’s Support for Wood: Stokes believes Wood has the potential to break the 100mph barrier. “I don’t know if he’s actually too bothered about it,” Stokes said. “He seems to be getting closer and closer to that mark, but I’m happy with what he’s doing now to be honest.” Stokes highlighted Wood’s consistent pace, noting that Wood maintains an average speed above 90mph throughout his spells.
Stokes also praised Wood’s resilience and dedication, stating, “You have to hold your hands up and celebrate what we have there. He has got the heart of a lion. He runs in spell after spell, ball after ball.” Stokes emphasized Wood’s impact on the game, as his speed and energy lift the crowd and add excitement to the match.
Looking Ahead: Wood’s injury-plagued career has often hindered his progress, but his current form has been exceptional. Stokes is enthusiastic about Wood’s future contributions and his potential to achieve new speed records in Test cricket.
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