Alastair Cook’s question about Ben Stokes stirs memories for Justin Langer
Former England captain Alastair Cook found himself in a delicate situation during TNT Sports’ coverage of the first Ashes Test when he asked Justin Langer about Australian views on Ben Stokes. Cook posed a seemingly straightforward question regarding the perception of Stokes in Australia, particularly in light of his impressive record against the team, reports BritPanorama.
“I’d love to hear the Aussie point of view of Stokesy, he seems to deliver all the time against Australia. His first hundred was here in Perth in 13/14, what do the public and what do you guys think of him?” Cook inquired. However, he likely overlooked Langer’s personal connection to one of Stokes’ most iconic performances.
Langer’s response was immediate and weighed with emotion. “Easily the worst day of my cricket career, without question, was Leeds,” he said, referencing the 2019 Headingley Test where he led the Australian side. That match featured Stokes’ unforgettable unbeaten 135, which dramatically secured an England victory.
The memory appeared to still haunt Langer, who recalled observing helplessly from the Australian dugout as Stokes shifted the match’s momentum. “What people forget about that Test match was he made an amazing 100, brilliant. The day before he bowled a nine or ten over spell which brought England back into the game,” he noted.
Despite the painful recollection, Langer expressed admiration for Stokes’ extraordinary talent. He remarked, “He is a freak and I remember after that series I put a baggy green cap on his head and put him over my shoulder and said ‘you’re coming with me’.” Langer drew comparisons to another English great, indicating the impact Stokes has had on the game. “It was like Flintoff back in 2005, you need that man to stand up. He can do it with both.”
Furthermore, Langer praised Stokes’ fitness and leadership qualities, acknowledging, “I just love how fit and strong he is and for a captain to walk out with that presence and do what he does, he gave me the worst day of my career.”
Cook’s reaction was a mixture of surprise and apology. “I genuinely forgot you were the coach for that and I was not bringing that up to introduce you to TNT. I apologise,” he said, laughing as he navigated the unexpected exchange.
This conversation unfolded during an analysis of England’s strong bowling performance in Perth, where Stokes had recently taken five wickets to help dismiss Australia. It demonstrated how Cook’s innocuous question inadvertently reopened old wounds for Langer, highlighting the lasting impact of Stokes’ remarkable Headingley innings, which continues to resonate within cricket circles.
Such moments remind us that the theatre of sport weaves together triumphs and tribulations, with echoes of past glories often surfacing at the most unexpected times.
