Ben Stokes’ 2019 Headingley Miracle – The Greatest Ashes Innings of All Time

Buy this photo on our website here - available as print, framed, or on canvas

Overview – Ashes 2019, 3rd Test at Headingley

On 25 August 2019, at Headingley, Leeds, Ben Stokes produced one of the greatest innings in Test cricket history, leading England to an improbable one-wicket victory over Australia in the third Test of the 2019 Ashes series.

England chased down 359 runs, their highest-ever successful run chase in Test cricket, with Stokes scoring an unbeaten 135 not out to level the series at 1–1.

Match Facts:

  • Date: 22–25 August 2019

  • Venue: Headingley, Leeds

  • Teams: England vs Australia

  • Result: England won by 1 wicket

  • England 2nd Innings: 362/9 (Stokes 135*)

  • Series: 2019 Ashes (5-match series)

The Match Situation

After being bowled out for just 67 in their first innings, England’s chances looked slim. Australia set a target of 359, and by the time England were 286–9, defeat seemed inevitable.

Ben Stokes’ Unbelievable Innings

Calm Before the Storm

Stokes began his innings with patience, focusing on survival and rotating the strike with Jonny Bairstow. His defensive resolve allowed England to rebuild.

Turning on the Aggression

Once England were nine wickets down with Jack Leach at the crease, Stokes switched gears. He unleashed a breathtaking display of power-hitting — reverse sweeps, switch hits, and towering sixes — dismantling the Australian attack.

The Winning Moment

With just one wicket remaining, England needed 1 run to win. Stokes drove the ball through the covers, sparking wild celebrations at Headingley and across the cricketing world.

Key Moments from Stokes’ Innings

  • Partnership with Jack Leach: A 76-run stand for the last wicket, with Leach contributing just 1 run.

  • Bravery Under Pressure: Stokes refused singles early in the partnership to protect Leach from Australia’s pace bowlers.

  • Audacious Strokeplay: Stokes hit 8 sixes and 11 fours, including outrageous reverse sweeps off Nathan Lyon.

Why It Was Special

  • Historic Run Chase: England’s highest-ever successful run chase in Test cricket.

  • Ashes Impact: Leveled the 2019 Ashes series at 1–1, keeping England’s hopes alive.

  • Sporting Drama: One of the most thrilling climaxes in Test history, cementing Stokes’ place among the game’s greats.

Legacy of the Headingley 2019 Test

Ben Stokes’ Headingley heroics are now part of cricket folklore. Comparisons have been drawn with Ian Botham’s 1981 Ashes innings at the same ground, but many argue Stokes’ performance was even greater given the match situation and pressure.

The image of Jack Leach cleaning his glasses between deliveries and Stokes pumping his fists after the winning shot will remain iconic moments in Ashes history.


Why is Stokes’ innings considered one of the best in history?

Because of the immense pressure, match situation, and sheer quality of strokeplay under extreme tension.

Where was the match played?

At Headingley, Leeds, during the third Test of the 2019 Ashes series.

 

Back to blog