England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lauded the influence of England’s assistant ODI coach Paul Farbrace over his career. The all-rounder was reinstated as the number six batsman for England by Farbrace, who was, at that time, the interim head coach of England following the sacking of Peter Moores.

After being promoted to six – Stokes was batting at 8 before that – the left-handed batsman smashed five Test centuries that also includes a double ton against South Africa.

Stokes, meanwhile, believes that it was the turning point of his career since number six was where he made his debut before being slipped down at number 8. Hence, being given back the number six slot instilled him with self-belief.

“I think that was the turning point for me in international cricket.

“It’s a place where I made my debut, batting at No 6 and being that fourth bowler. I was then in and out of the team and if I was in I was batting at 8.

“So when Farby gave me the opportunity to come back into the side at No 6 again there was that self-belief, knowing that I’ve done this role successfully, whether for England or back at Durham.”

Stokes then further showered Farbrace with praises, labeling him as someone who knows how to get the best out of his players – be it someone new or a veteran.

“Farby is great at getting the best out of the individual – even for myself, who has played quite a lot over the last three years, he is constantly saying go out, do what you do best and commit to it.

“He’s like that with everyone, whether it’s an experienced guy or a young guy coming in for their first couple of games.”

Farbrace was set to become the new head coach of Bangladesh but pulled out of the deal at the very last moment. As it turned out, he will now take the reins of England’s T20 team as its head coach against Australia and India.