Stokes backs England’s batters after crushing series defeat to Pakistan
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CAPTAIN Ben Stokes admitted England failed to measure up as they crashed to a series defeat against Pakistan on Saturday but suggested there would be no scapegoats for the rout in Rawalpindi.
The tourists were railroaded for 112 in the second innings of the decisive third Test, with their lowest total since Stokes took charge two-and-a-half years ago, leaving their opponents chasing just 36.
It took Pakistan only 19 deliveries to put England out of their misery as home skipper Shan Masood blitzed Shoaib Bashir for six to seal the deal before lunch on day three.
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