Ben Stokes save lauded as 'one of the best pieces of fielding' ever seen
England all-rounder Ben Stokes has pulled off an extraordinary boundary save during his side's narrow victory over Australia in Canberra.
Stokes was fielding at long-off when Mitchell Marsh launched a ball from Sam Curran into the outfield. It likely would have gone for six, but Stokes back-peddled to the rope, before throwing up his right hand in a desperate last-ditch attempt to save the ball.
He was able to flick the ball back into play in mid-air as he fell over the rope, restricting the Australians to just two runs.
READ MORE: 'Hated' Panthers grand final star shreds critics
READ MORE: Post-match celebration lands team in hot water
READ MORE: Ricciardo exposes brutal Formula 1 failings
"We all got up out of our seats," said Mark Waugh in commentary.
"That was amazing from Ben Stokes to keep it in the field of play."
"Outstanding," added Adam Gilchrist.
"Modern fielding of the highest quality."
Daily Mail cricket correspondent, Paul Newman, described it as "one of the best pieces of fielding I've ever seen."
Newman, however, did admit there will be lingering concerns over Stokes' form with the bat.
Batting at number three, Stokes made nine off nine balls in game one in Perth, and seven off 11 balls at number four in Canberra.
Stream every Australian men's T20 World Cup match plus selected other matches, including the finals, live and free on 9Now.
England has a 2-0 lead in the three match series, having won both matches by the identical margin of eight runs. The third and final match of the series will be played in Canberra on Friday.
Australia and England have also been placed in the same group for the upcoming T20 World Cup, along with New Zealand. Only two teams will progress from that group to the knockout stages.
Australian cricket's highest earners - Pat Cummins tops contract list for third straight year
