Ben Stokes and Ben Foakes centuries put England in complete control

Ben Stokes’ first century as England captain and a first in four years for Ben Foakes left the hosts in complete control after two days of the second LV= Test against South Africa.

Stokes marked the release date of the new documentary about his turbulent career with a timely piece of ambush marketing, hitting 103 as he and Foakes powered their side into a commanding first-innings lead of 264 at Emirates Old Trafford.

The wicketkeeper’s only other hundred came on debut in Sri Lanka in 2018 and he carved out a vital 113 not out to share the heavy lifting with his skipper, allowing a declaration at 415 for nine.

With nine overs to face before the close Dean Elgar and Sarel Erwee reached 23 without loss, the start of a long battle to stay in contention.

For much of his first summer in charge, Stokes has been more concerned with making a statement at the crease than a score, driving his team’s ultra-aggressive agenda but selling his wicket cheaply at times.

He struck a more mature balance here, clearing the ropes on three occasions and adding six fours, but he also showed durability and diligence as he scored at a refreshingly gentle strike-rate of 63.19.

Foakes was even more considered, reaching three figures in 206 deliveries, but between them the pair got their priorities perfectly right: cement England’s position in the match and lay the foundations for levelling the series 1-1.

South Africa were still four runs in front when they came together at 147 for five, Anrich Nortje having ripped out the overnight duo of Jonny Bairstow and Zak Crawley in a fiery first spell. But they spent the next 53 overs side by side, putting on a brilliant stand of 173.

Stokes fell six balls after celebrating his 12th Test century with a