Sai Kishore Bowls Ben Stokes for 45 in Durham County Championship Clash
Indian left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore produced a sharp delivery to dismiss England Test captain Ben Stokes during Durham’s first innings in the County Championship at Chester-le-Street. The dismissal marked a notable reversal between the two players after Stokes had previously dismissed Sai Kishore earlier in the game.
What Happened
During Durham’s first innings reply against Gloucestershire, Sai Kishore delivered a ball that breached the defence of Ben Stokes. The delivery slid between bat and pad, knocking a stump out of the ground to conclude Stokes’s stay at the crease on 45 runs. Upon walking off the field, Stokes threw his bat high in visible frustration. Gloucestershire subsequently shared video footage of the dismissal online.
The wicket served as an exchange of dismissals across the two innings. When Gloucestershire batted first, they were bowled out for 137, with Stokes claiming Sai Kishore’s wicket for a duck. In Durham’s reply, David Bedingham anchored the innings with a century, scoring 122 to establish a dominant position for the home side. By the lunch interval on Day 2, Durham’s innings was ongoing, with Colin Ackermann and Ollie Robinson batting together.
Key Highlights
- Sai Kishore bowled Ben Stokes for 45 runs, sending a stump flying after penetrating the gap between bat and pad.
- The dismissal completed a head-to-head exchange after Stokes dismissed Sai Kishore for a duck in Gloucestershire’s first-innings total of 137.
- David Bedingham recorded 122 runs to steer Durham into control of the fixture.
- Sai Kishore is currently playing on a six-match contract signed with Gloucestershire in July 2026.
Why This Matters
Sai Kishore’s stint with Gloucestershire is aimed at strengthening the team’s bowling unit in Division Two of the County Championship. Before his arrival, Gloucestershire had recorded only one victory in their opening eight Championship matches of the campaign. The county’s cricket director, Jon Lewis, previously emphasized the club’s intent to elevate performances over the remaining fixtures. Taking the wicket of an accomplished international all-rounder like Stokes reinforces Sai Kishore’s utility in English conditions, where he previously took 11 wickets in two outings for Surrey before claiming four on debut for Gloucestershire against Worcestershire.
What to Watch Next
Durham’s first innings remains active, with Colin Ackermann and Ollie Robinson at the crease following the Day 2 lunch break. Gloucestershire will look to conclude Durham’s batting effort and reduce the deficit as the County Championship Division Two match continues at Chester-le-Street.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are R Sai Kishore’s first-class bowling statistics?
Sai Kishore entered this county stint with 223 first-class wickets to his name, maintaining a bowling average of 24.21.
Has R Sai Kishore played international cricket for India?
Sai Kishore has played three T20 Internationals for India, earning his debut at the 2023 Asian Games and taking four wickets. He has not represented India in Test cricket.
How long is Sai Kishore’s deal with Gloucestershire?
Sai Kishore joined Gloucestershire on a six-match agreement in July 2026 to compete in the closing stages of the County Championship season.
Source: Match reports and player statistics via Crictracker.