Ben Stokes Says England Don’t Fear Jasprit Bumrah Ahead of 1st Test at Headingley
England Test captain Ben Stokes has made a bold statement ahead of the highly anticipated Test series against India, asserting that his team does not fear India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Stokes, speaking to the media ahead of the 1st Test at Headingley, said that while Bumrah is undoubtedly a world-class bowler, no single player can decide the outcome of a Test series.
Stokes emphasised that success in Test cricket is a collective effort and dismissed the idea that England is worried about facing Bumrah. “No fear,” he said when asked specifically about India’s strike bowler. “In international cricket, you come up against quality opposition all the time. We know his class and what he brings to any team he plays for, but in terms of fear, definitely not.”
The England skipper added, “I don’t think one bowler alone is going to win the series for either team. All 11 players have to stand up. I don’t think there is just one person in either team holding the key to success.”
Bumrah’s Dominance Over England
Stokes’ comments come even as Bumrah’s record against England remains formidable. In 14 Test matches against England, Bumrah has claimed 60 wickets at a stellar average of 22.16. His performance in English conditions has been equally impressive—37 wickets in 9 Tests at an average of 26.27.
Bumrah has also historically held the edge in his battles against Ben Stokes. The Indian pacer’s ability to angle the ball in from around the wicket has frequently troubled the England captain, including during England’s 2024 tour of India, when Bumrah’s fiery spells left Stokes and the rest of the batting order reeling.
England’s XI Announced Early
In a display of confidence and clarity, England have named their playing XI two days ahead of the first Test. Ollie Pope has been picked at No. 3 over youngster Jacob Bethell, as England continues to back experience in their top order.
The side features three seamers—Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Josh Tongue—with Shoaib Bashir included as the lone specialist spinner. Jamie Smith takes the gloves in the absence of Ben Foakes, while the top order will be led by Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, followed by the experienced Joe Root and in-form Harry Brook.
England’s Playing XI vs India (1st Test, Headingley):
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (C)
- Jamie Smith (WK)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Josh Tongue
- Shoaib Bashir
High Stakes for Both Teams
The Test series is being seen as a crucial one for both sides in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. While England are coming off a mixed run, India will be looking to bounce back after recent away losses. The duel between Bumrah and the England batting lineup, especially Ben Stokes, is likely to be one of the most closely watched battles of the series.
With the pitch at Headingley expected to offer pace and bounce early on, seamers from both sides will look to make early inroads. Whether Stokes’ confidence holds up against Bumrah’s lethal spells remains to be seen.
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