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Ben Stokes named Wisden's leading cricketer in the world to end Virat Kohli runBy Evening Standard

Ben Stokes has added to his list of accolades following a brilliant 2019 by being named as Wisden's leading cricketer in the world.

The Durham all-rounder enjoyed an unforgettable year, playing an instrumental role in England's maiden one-day World Cup win in July with an unbeaten knock of 84 in the final against New Zealand at Lord's and then 15 more runs in a thrilling Super Over.

Just six weeks later, Stokes then produced one of the great all-time Test innings as his remarkable 135 not out secured victory over Australia at Headingley and kept the 2019 Ashes series alive.

The 29-year-old was later named BBC Sports Personality of the Year and received an OBE in the New Year's Honours List before claiming ICC Men's Player of the Year honours in January.

Now Wisden's leading cricketer, Stokes ends the three-year reign of India captain Virat Kohli, who held the title in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Andrew Flintoff had been the last England player to earn Wisden leading cricketer honours following England's famous Ashes win of 2005.

The award for leading women's cricketer went to Ellyse Perry, with the Australian all-rounder also named alongside England bowler Jofra Archer, compatriots Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne and Essex's Simon Harmer in the 'Five Cricketers of the Year' list.