Sports Star’s Unrecognizable Past Revealed in Resurfaced Photo
A recently resurfaced photo has revealed the unrecognizable past of a well-known sports star. The picture shows the sports star as a young kid growing up in New Zealand, long before he achieved fame and success in his chosen sport. Now a hero for England in the Ashes series, this athlete’s journey from a sport-obsessed kid to cricket stardom is truly remarkable.
The sports star in question is none other than Ben Stokes, the skipper of the English cricket team. Twenty years ago, before becoming a household name, Stokes was just a young boy with a passion for sports. The photo captures a glimpse of his Kiwi upbringing, where his father, Ged Stokes, played rugby league for New Zealand and later became a coach for the Workington Town rugby league team.
Growing up in Christchurch, New Zealand, Stokes spent the first 12 years of his life immersed in sports. He remembers accompanying his father to rugby training every night, kicking goals and falling in love with the game. The family eventually moved to Wellington, where Stokes continued to play cricket and rugby. His love for cricket was evident from a young age, as he would spend hours playing in the garden, often knocking down the fence to the dismay of their neighbors.
Stokes’ father, known for his toughness, played a significant role in shaping his son’s character. Opponents on the cricket field learned to tread carefully when playing against young Ben, as his father was always watching and ready to intervene if necessary. Stokes fondly remembers a particular incident where a professional player targeted him, only to have his father step in and put an end to the mistreatment.
At the age of 12, Stokes moved to England with his family after his father secured a coaching job. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, leading him towards his cricketing destiny. Stokes has often credited his Kiwi upbringing for laying the foundation for his success in cricket. His time spent in New Zealand allowed him to develop his skills and nurture his love for the game.
Today, Ben Stokes stands as one of the most prominent figures in English cricket. His on-field achievements, including heroic performances and impressive centuries, have solidified his place in cricketing history. Stokes’ father, Ged, unfortunately, passed away in December 2020 after battling brain cancer. In honor of his late father, Ben pays tribute with a ‘three-finger salute’ after scoring a century—a gesture symbolizing his father’s sacrifice.
While Stokes cherishes his memories of training in Wellington as a young aspiring cricketer, he is quick to clarify his nationality. Despite his upbringing in New Zealand, Stokes proudly asserts his English identity. With a grin, he reminds everyone that he is indeed English through and through.
Ben Stokes’ journey from a sport-obsessed kid in New Zealand to becoming a cricket superstar is an inspiring tale of passion, dedication, and family support. His upbringing in New Zealand undoubtedly shaped his love for the game and laid the groundwork for his future success. As England’s skipper, Stokes continues to captivate the cricketing world with his outstanding performances, making his late father proud with every century he scores.
The story of Ben Stokes is a reminder that greatness can emerge from the unlikeliest of places and that the passion instilled in a young child can lead to remarkable achievements. As fans continue to witness his exploits on the cricket field, it is clear that Ben Stokes’ journey is far from over, and he will undoubtedly continue to make his mark on the sport for years to come.
