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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Matthew Cooper

5 talking points as brilliant Ben Stokes hundred leaves England in charge vs South Africa

Ben Stokes' first century as England captain ensured his side was in a commanding position at the end of day two of the second Test against South Africa, with the hosts hoping to level the series.

After a magnificent spell from Anrich Nortje removed Jonny Bairstow and Zak Crawley in quick succession, Stokes came together with Ben Foakes to steady the ship and build a lead. Together the pair added 173 runs for the sixth wicket, with Stokes leading the way as he went through the gears.

After reaching his half-century with a six that went into the England dressing room, Stokes accelerated and brought up his hundred off 158 balls after striking nine boundaries. After he fell to Kagiso Rabada for 103, Stuart Broad blasted a quickfire 21 off 14 balls before Foakes brought up his second Test century.

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