Maybe Vaughan was right to question Stokes as England talisman struggles for runs

AFTER angrily spinning his bat into the sky at Headingley, at least Ben Stokes caught it.

- By Andy Dunn

Had it been an Indian fielder, there was every chance he would not.

The tourists dropped six catches during England's first innings, a series of errors that could be instrumental in the outcome of this enthralling opening Test. But Rishabh Pant did hold on to the chance given by Stokes after the skipper had spent an hour scratching his way towards a score of 20 yesterday.

It was a shot befitting his knock - strictly unconvincing.

And his frustration was not only symbolised by the bat toss, it was evident in the x-rated self-admonishment delivered on his way back to the pavilion.

Stokes remains an inspirational figure and leader, a talisman who was the pick of the English bowlers in India's first innings.