England's talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes carved his name into an exclusive segment of his nation's Test cricket history on Friday, December 5, 2025. This personal milestone arrived on a challenging second day of the ongoing Ashes Test against Australia, where his team's overall performance remained largely subdued.
A Lone Bright Spot in a Tough Day
While the English bowling attack toiled on a flat batting track at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Ben Stokes provided a crucial breakthrough. The 34-year-old dismissed Australian opener Usman Khawaja, who was looking solid on 42. This wicket was significant for more than just halting a partnership; it propelled Stokes into a rarefied group of English cricketers.
With that dismissal, Ben Stokes completed the double of 6,000 Test runs and 200 Test wickets. He became only the fourth Englishman in the 148-year history of Test cricket to achieve this extraordinary all-round feat. He now stands alongside legends Sir Ian Botham, Stuart Broad, and Andrew Flintoff in this exclusive club.
Stokes Joins the Pantheon of English Greats
The achievement underscores Stokes's immense value and longevity as a genuine match-winner in the longest format. Sir Ian Botham was the pioneer, reaching the milestone in 1984. Fast bowler Stuart Broad, surprisingly, was the next to join in 2020, followed by Andrew Flintoff who completed the double later that same year. Stokes's entry into this list reinforces his status as one of England's greatest all-rounders.
Despite this individual success, the day largely belonged to Australia. After resuming at their overnight score, the Australian batsmen capitalized on ideal batting conditions. Opener Caleb Jewell notched up a patient century, scoring 102 runs, while the experienced Marnus Labuschagne remained unbeaten on a gritty 89 at Stumps. Their efforts guided Australia to a commanding position at 307 for the loss of just three wickets.
England's Uphill Battle and the Road Ahead
England's bowling unit struggled for penetration throughout the day. Veteran seamer James Anderson managed to take the wicket of Steve Smith for 33, but breakthroughs were few and far between. The flat MCG pitch offered little assistance, and the Australian batters displayed disciplined application. The home team now holds a significant advantage, building a substantial first-innings lead with wickets in hand.
For England, the task on Day 3 is monumental. They will need to bundle out the Australian tail quickly to limit the damage. Subsequently, their batsmen must produce a vastly improved second-innings performance to save the Test. While Ben Stokes's personal landmark is a celebratory moment for English cricket, the team will need him to fire with both bat and ball to overturn the match situation.
The Ashes 2025 series continues to deliver high drama, and Stokes's entry into the elite 6000-run, 200-wicket club adds another historic chapter. However, for England to turn the tide in this match, they will require a collective, inspired effort, hoping their champion all-rounder can lead from the front once again.
