Ben Stokes Given out 'Obstructing the Field' in Bizarre Dismissal

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Ben Stokes was given out after obstructing the field! #ENGvAUS pic.twitter.com/B80r4CnyeI

— BeanBagSports (@BeanBagSports) September 5, 2015"

England all-rounder Ben Stokes was given out in controversial fashion during the second one-day international against Australia at Lords.

The bizarre dismissal occurred when Stokes used his hand to block a Mitchell Starc throw from hitting the stumps, with the England batsman out of his ground having driven the ball straight back to the bowler.

After discussions between the on-field and third umpires, Stokes was given out obstructing the field, only the sixth man to be given out by such means in ODI history.

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It's the 6th time in ODIs, first time for an England player, apparently. https://t.co/cXZTDkhozQ

— Melinda Farrell (@melindafarrell) September 5, 2015"

However, not all agreed with the decision, with many arguing that Stokes was simply taking evasive action.

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Common sense would tell you @benstokes38 was taking evasive action & was not obstructing the field. Smith should have withdrawn the appeal

— Alec Stewart (@StewieCricket) September 5, 2015"

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"Very harsh decision... IMO Stokes was just protecting himself from the throw... ..." http://t.co/ADE6yUMPwh

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) September 5, 2015"

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Stokes was clearly trying to defend his face from the ball not try and stop the ball hitting the wicket.

— Jonathan Norman (@FulhamJon) September 5, 2015"

Australia went on to bowl England out for 245, securing a 64-run win and a 2-0 series lead.

[Twitter]