Ben Stokes Prepares for Crucial Third Test Against India at Lord's

As the Test series between England and India stands at 1-1, captain Ben Stokes emphasizes the competitive nature of the matches. With the next game set at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground, Stokes expresses confidence in his team's ability to bounce back after a heavy defeat in the second Test. The article delves into the performances of both teams, highlighting key players and pivotal moments that have defined the series so far. Readers can expect insights into England's strategy and Stokes' reflections on the intense rivalry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 9, 2025, 22:03 IST

England's Captain Acknowledges Competitive Series

Ben Stokes, the captain of England, has recognized the fierce competition in the ongoing Test series against India, emphasizing that both teams are closely matched and capable of shifting the momentum in their favor. With the series currently tied at 1-1, the teams are set to clash at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground for the third Test, commencing on Thursday.

Stokes Comments on Series Dynamics

Ahead of the match, Stokes shared his thoughts, stating, "This series was always expected to have its ups and downs, with results fluctuating due to the quality of both teams involved," as reported by a sports outlet.

Reviewing England's Loss at Edgbaston

India made a strong comeback in the second Test at Edgbaston, defeating England by a significant margin of 336 runs, thus leveling the series. Previously, England had secured a five-wicket victory in the first Test at Headingley.

Stokes reflected on the matches, saying, "We triumphed at Headingley, and they clearly dominated in the last game." He added, "When two strong teams face off, such outcomes are expected. We do not consider ourselves superior to anyone; we hold our opponents in high regard."

Stokes Optimistic for Lord's Test

Despite the heavy defeat in Birmingham, Stokes expressed confidence in England's ability to bounce back at Lord's, stating, "We will approach this week with the intent to challenge them fiercely and aim for a victory."

Recap of England's Defeat in the Edgbaston Test

In the second Test, England chose to field first again. After dismissing KL Rahul for just 2 runs, India established a solid foundation with an 80-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (87 runs off 107 balls, including 13 fours) and Karun Nair (31 runs off 50 balls, with five fours). Captain Shubman Gill formed crucial partnerships, scoring 269 runs off 387 balls, including 30 fours and three sixes, while Ravindra Jadeja contributed 89 runs off 137 balls.

Shoaib Bashir was the standout bowler for England, taking 3 wickets for 167 runs, while Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue each claimed two wickets. In England's first innings, they found themselves in trouble at 84 for 5, but a remarkable 303-run partnership between Harry Brook (158 runs off 234 balls) and Jamie Smith (184 not out off 207 balls) helped them recover. However, Siraj (6 wickets for 70 runs) and Akash Deep (4 wickets for 88 runs) managed to take crucial wickets, leading to England's total of 407 runs and a 180-run deficit.

India responded with a quick-fire half-century partnership, with Jaiswal scoring 28 runs off 22 balls and KL Rahul continuing his form with 55 runs off 84 balls. A 110-run partnership between Rishabh Pant (65 runs off 58 balls) and Gill, followed by a 175-run partnership with Jadeja, saw India declare at 427 for 6, setting England a daunting target of 608 runs.

During the chase, England struggled, finding themselves at 50 for 3. Jamie Smith was the lone bright spot with 88 runs off 99 balls, but England was ultimately bowled out for 271 runs, losing by 336 runs, with Akash Deep taking an impressive six wickets for 99 runs.