Australian substitute Marnus Labuschagne’s 59 at the fifth day secured Australia to draw the second test against the host England.
Stokes unbeaten 115 at the second innings help England to throw 267 targets to the Aussies in 48 overs in the last day.
Following the target, Australia lost first 2 wickets scoring only 19 in the scoreboard which raised some hope for England to win the test.
But Labuschagne who is the first substitute player in the history of cricket to bowl and bat as a substitute player, made tremendous 50 which helped Australia to draw the test.
“Marnus played superbly,” said Australia captain Tim Paine.
“He got hit hard in the face second ball and I thought he showed great character, great skill and technique.”
English bowler Jofra Archer, who had been debuted in this second test replaced to James Anderson, also bowled superbly and took 3 wickets for 32 in the second innings and total 5 wickets in a debut test.
“Archer bowled a nine over spell at 90mph-plus. It was frightening. I would much rather have him on our side”, said English all rounder Ben Stokes.
“It is brilliant to have someone like that in the team”, he added.
The visitors were without premier batsman Steve Smith, who was withdrawn from the match with a concussion sustained when he was hit by Archer on Saturday.
Cricket Australia said: “Steve Smith had a precautionary scan of his neck on Sunday which, as expected, cleared him of any structural damage. After the scan Steve returned to the team hotel to rest and he will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis.”
Ben Stokes selected as player of the match.
Australia will retain the Ashes if they win the third Test at Headingley, which begins on Thursday.
> Dipto Paul
