Stokes and Foakes centuries give England command of second test

Ben Stokes and Ben Foakes hit centuries to help England establish a commanding first-innings lead over South Africa after two days of the second test at Old Trafford

Ben Stokes and Ben Foakes hit centuries on Friday to help England establish a commanding first-innings lead over South Africa after two days of the second test at Old Trafford.

Stokes made 103 for his first century as England full-time test captain, and Foakes weighed in with 113 not out — his highest international knock — as they shared a sixth-wicket partnership of 173.

Foakes was still there when England declared on 415-9, with a first-innings advantage of 264 runs.

South Africa openers Dean Elgar (11) and Sarel Erwee (12) negotiated nine overs before stumps to close on 23 without loss. The Proteas were rolled over for 151 on day one after opting to bat in Manchester.

South Africa leads the three-match series 1-0 after an innings win at Lord's last week.

Stokes marked the release date of the new documentary about his turbulent career with a timely piece of marketing, hitting his 12th test century, while wicketkeeper Foakes made his second hundred after one on debut in Sri Lanka in 2018.

For much of his first summer in charge, Stokes has been more concerned with making a statement at the crease than a score, driving his team’s ultra-aggressive agenda but selling his wicket cheaply at times.