Ben Stokes commended fast bowler Mark Wood's "phenomenal" performance after Wood claimed five wickets in a six-over burst, which paved the way for England's series-clinching win against the West Indies in the third Test at Edgbaston.
Before lunch on the third day, Wood had only taken four wickets in the two Tests of the series, despite delivering consistently fast and unsettling spells to the West Indies' batters. However, in a remarkable six-over spell, Wood took five wickets for just nine runs, bowling the West Indies out for 175 in their second innings and setting up a ten-wicket win for England.
Stokes, speaking to Sky Sports, remarked that Wood seemed capable of taking a wicket with every ball he bowled, especially given his ability to reverse swing the ball at 93 mph, which made it incredibly challenging for the batters. He praised Wood's determination and the impact of his performance, highlighting that his spell was exactly what a captain hopes for in such moments. Stokes emphasised the unique skills and "X factor" Wood brings to the team, underscoring his crucial role in their success.