BEN STOKES was left in a state of panic in the moments prior to his sensational one-handed catch, as England kicked off their home World Cup with a crushing 104-run victory over South Africa.

Stokes top-scored with 89 as the hosts posted 311 for eight at a sold out Oval and finished the match with two wickets in as many balls but his best moment came while he was stationed at deep midwicket — a quite astonishing leaping effort with his outstretched right hand seeing off Andile Phehlukwayo.

“I had a panic on for the catch, I was further in then I should have been,” said Stokes. “Luckily it stuck, I didn’t know how to react as it was a regulation catch if I was in the right position!