Ben Duckett Reverse Ramp Shot: England’s Bold Bazball Statement in 5th Test vs India

England’s Duckett Dazzles with Audacious Reverse Ramp in Oval Test

Ben Duckett, England’s dynamic left-handed opener, has once again captured the cricketing world’s attention with a jaw-dropping reverse ramp six off Akash Deep during the second day of the fifth Test against India at The Oval. In a series already brimming with drama, Duckett’s fearless strokeplay has become the defining moment of the match—and perhaps the series.

Duckett’s Bazball Brilliance: A Shot Heard Around the Cricketing World

In the fourth over of England’s innings, Duckett faced Akash Deep, who had kept him scoreless until the final delivery. Duckett then unleashed a reverse ramp shot that sailed over the slip cordon for six. The shot not only stunned the bowler but also disrupted India’s rhythm, leading to 12 runs in Akash’s next over. England’s opening pair—Duckett and Zak Crawley—raced to 92/1 in just 12.4 overs, with Duckett contributing a brisk 43 off 38 balls.

Duckett and Crawley: Redefining Opening Partnerships

Duckett and Crawley have now built four 150-plus partnerships in Tests since December 2022. Their scoring rate of 5.18 during the Leeds Test was the second-highest for a century stand against India. They are also the first opening duo in Test history to achieve three 150-plus stands at a run rate above 100, redefining how opening partnerships are approached in modern Test cricket.

Why This Is Trending Right Now

Real-Time Momentum

Ben Duckett’s reverse ramp shot has gone viral across social media, with England Cricket’s official account sharing the clip. Google Trends shows a sharp spike in searches for “Ben Duckett reverse ramp,” especially in the U.S. and U.K. regions. News outlets have featured Duckett’s shot as the highlight of Day 2, with fans and analysts praising the audacity and timing of the stroke.

Media Coverage

Major sports networks aired the moment as part of their “Moment of the Day” segment. News platforms described the shot as “ridiculous” in the best way possible, applauding Duckett’s innovation and confidence. Analysts emphasized the psychological impact on Akash Deep and the Indian bowling unit, noting how the shot shifted momentum early in England’s innings.

Duckett’s Test Stats at a Glance

Ben Duckett has played 37 Test matches, scoring a total of 2,775 runs at an impressive average of 42.59. His strike rate stands at 96.17, reflecting his aggressive approach at the crease. He has registered six centuries and fifteen half-centuries in his career so far. At home, Duckett averages 49, showcasing his consistency in familiar conditions. Against India specifically, he has scored 726 runs across 11 Tests, making him one of England’s most reliable performers in this series.

Duckett’s Role in England’s Bazball Revolution

Duckett’s aggressive style is tailor-made for England’s Bazball philosophy. His ability to play unconventional shots under pressure has made him a fan favorite and a key figure in England’s modern Test strategy. England captain Ben Stokes has repeatedly praised Duckett’s temperament and execution, calling him a player who embodies the fearless spirit of Bazball. Duckett’s reverse ramp wasn’t just a flashy stroke—it was a calculated move that disrupted India’s bowling plans and energized the crowd.

The Oval Test: Current Match Situation

India was bowled out for 224 in their first innings. England responded aggressively, reaching 92/1 with Duckett and Crawley leading the charge. Duckett’s dismissal for 43 came via a sharp delivery from Akash Deep, but the damage had already been done. His early assault set the tone for England’s innings and put India on the back foot. The momentum now favors England, with their aggressive approach continuing to dominate headlines.

FAQs

What is a reverse ramp shot in cricket?
It’s a risky stroke where the batter reverses their stance and ramps the ball over the slips or wicketkeeper, often used to surprise bowlers and disrupt field placements.

Why is Ben Duckett trending?
His audacious reverse ramp six off Akash Deep in the 5th Test has gone viral and is being hailed as a Bazball masterstroke, capturing the imagination of fans and analysts alike.

How has Duckett performed in this series?
Duckett has been in sublime form, with multiple 50-plus scores and a standout 149 in the first Test. His aggressive batting has consistently put pressure on India’s bowlers.

What makes Duckett and Crawley a unique opening pair?
They’ve achieved three 150-plus partnerships at scoring rates above 100—an unprecedented feat in Test cricket that reflects their synergy and attacking mindset.

Conclusion

Ben Duckett’s fearless reverse ramp wasn’t just a shot—it was a statement. In a high-stakes series against India, Duckett has emerged as the embodiment of England’s new cricketing ethos: aggressive, inventive, and unapologetically bold. As the Oval Test unfolds, one thing is clear—Duckett’s name will be etched in cricketing folklore, not just for the runs he scored, but for the way he scored them. His performance is a testament to the evolution of Test cricket and the rise of a new generation of players who aren’t afraid to challenge convention.