Stokes Pledges Aggressive Approach for Third Test Victory Against India

LONDON: Ahead of the third Test of the five-match series, England’s captain, Ben Stokes, has issued a strong statement to India. The match is slated to commence on Thursday at The Lord’s.

The Anderson-Tendulkar trophy currently stands level at 1-1. India compensated for their initial five-wicket loss by securing a significant 336-run victory in the subsequent game.

Shubman Gill spearheaded the visitors’ effort, complementing his first-innings score of 269 with a rapid century in the second innings. This performance guided his team to their first triumph at Edgbaston.

Reflecting on the substantial defeat, Ben Stokes highlighted the series’ likely fluctuating nature, given the high level of competition between the two capable teams.

However, the England captain cautioned their rivals to anticipate a determined response in The Lord’s Test, promising to challenge them aggressively.

“This series was always expected to have its ups and downs, with results varying due to the presence of two highly competitive teams,” Stokes commented during the pre-match press conference.

“We emerged victorious at Headingley, while they prevailed in the previous match. Such fluctuations are typical when two strong teams compete fiercely.

“We don’t assume we have an advantage over any team. We respect all our opponents. This week, we aim to play aggressively and, of course, strive for a victory.”

Earlier, England announced their team for the forthcoming match. Sussex pacer Jofra Archer is set to participate in his first Test in over four years.

England XI for third Test against India:

  • Zak Crawley
  • Ben Duckett
  • Ollie Pope
  • Joe Root
  • Harry Brook
  • Ben Stokes (capt)
  • Jamie Smith (wk)
  • Chris Woakes
  • Brydon Carse
  • Jofra Archer
  • Shoaib Bashir