Ben Stokes responds to World Cup snub by striking 15 sixes in brutal England Lions century

His 151 came from just 86 balls as the Lions posted 378-6 against South Africa A

Stokes celebrates bringing up his century off 73 balls (Getty Images)

The Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes, who was omitted from England's World Cup squad, has struck 15 sixes in an unbeaten 151 for England Lions against South Africa A.

The extraordinary display of hitting lasted just 86 balls and propelled the Lions to an imposing 378-6 in the fourth unofficial ODI in Pretoria.

Stokes, who has made 24 ODI appearances for England, was overlooked when the World Cup squad was named last month after struggling for form during the tour of Sri Lanka in December.

In total, Stokes hit 118 runs in boundaries (Getty Images)

But after England's batsmen struggled for consistency during the recent Tri-Series in Australia, this eye-catching knock against a strong South Africa attack will remind the selectors of the 23-year-old's striking abilities.

Stokes came to the crease in the 24th over with his side at 123-3, and brought up his 50 in a relatively sedate 46 balls.

He accelerated to reach 100 from 73 balls, before dispatching nine of his final 14 deliveries for six to bring up his 150.

He shared in a 132-run fifth-wicket partnership off just 10.4 overs with Kent's Sam Billings, who made 56 off 33 balls.

England Lions are currently leading the series 2-0.