A World Cup full of memorable moments was also marked by exclusion, exploitation and unprecedented political meddling, writes JAMES NALTON
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Ben Stokes's jaw-dropping catch helps England secure opening day victory over South Africa
From Barry McGuigan and Carl Frampton to Tyrone McKenna and Lewis Crocker, the city’s fighters carry a complex history into the ring, writes JOHN WIGHT
BEN STOKES was left in a state of panic in the moments prior to his sensational one-handed catch, as England kicked off their home World Cup with a crushing 104-run victory over South Africa.
Stokes top-scored with 89 as the hosts posted 311 for eight at a sold out Oval and finished the match with two wickets in as many balls but his best moment came while he was stationed at deep midwicket — a quite astonishing leaping effort with his outstretched right hand seeing off Andile Phehlukwayo.
“I had a panic on for the catch, I was further in then I should have been,” said Stokes. “Luckily it stuck, I didn’t know how to react as it was a regulation catch if I was in the right position!
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