Virat Kohli Lauds Ben Stokes's Ashes Heroics At Lord's: 'Innings Of The Highest Quality'

Indian batting star Virat Kohli has lauded Virat Kohli for his freakish and spirited knock on day five of the second Ashes Test at Lord's. Praising the all-rounder for his blistering yet valiant innings, Kohli admitted that Stokes is arguably the most competitive player he has faced in his career.

Stokes almost carried England to an improbable victory on day 5 of the Test when they needed 257 on a two-paced surface. The 32-year-old came to the crease under immense pressure on day four as England found themselves at 45-4 in pursuit of 371. The skipper weathered the storm and led the home side to Stumps at 114-4 in the company of Ben Duckett, who had reached his fifty. By Stumps on day four, the partnership between the pair was 68.

Ben Stokes tees off after Jonny Bairstow's departure:

After going unscathed in the first hour, Duckett gloved one to Alex Carey behind the stumps off Josh Hazlewood's bowling for 83. With Jonny Bairstow stumped by Carey under controversial circumstances, Stokes took matter into his own hands and reached his hundred with three consecutive sixes off Cameron Green before lunch.

Australia were the nervous team heading to lunch. When play resumed, the England skipper picked up from where he left off in Stuart Broad's company. Their partnership of 108 was ended by Hazlewood as Stokes edged one to backward point where Carey took a simple catch. The crowd gave him a standing ovation, while he earned the respect of his couunterpart Pat Cummins and his deputy Steve Smith.

Virat Kohli admits Australia are too good at the moment:

While praising Kohli for an incredible knock, Kohli acknowledged that Australia have been top-notch.

Australia eventually bowled England out for 327 and won by 43 runs to go 2-0 up in the series.India