Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has heaped praises on the captaincy of Ben Stokes. England are enjoying in opposition to Australia within the first recreation of Ashes 2023 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. On the opening day, the facet declared its innings for 393 for 8 after Stokes received the toss and opted to bat first. The daring declaration from the host skipper was adopted by some tight bowling from England that finally helped them take benefit on the second day of the primary Test.

Some good subject placement from Stokes helped England muzzle Australia opener David Warner and it impressed Pietersen.

Australia have been 78 for 3 at Lunch on Day 2 with Stuart Broad claiming the wickets of Warner and Marnus Labuschagne on consecutive deliveries. Later within the first session on Saturday, Ben Stokes eliminated Steve Smith to place England on high.

“Very good leadership and you are almost pointing a finger at Australians saying ‘this is how it should be done’,” stated Pietersen praising Stokes at Lunch on Day 2.

“Ben Stokes has not allowed David Warner to play backfoot punches. (Warner) wasn’t allowed to do that last night, wasn’t allowed to do that this morning. (Stuart) Broad was expectional and so patient. And it was his (Warner’s) demise. That extra little intent to go through cover and look what happens.

“England began with plan A and may simply go to plan B. Yesterday, Australia began with plan B, too troublesome to get again to plan A.”

It was Joe Root’s unbeaten 118 that helped England post a big total on the board in their first innings.