“So who knows if we can do it against India, only time will tell”, Ben Stokes on Bazball success on Indian Soil.

Prior to the conclusion of the Ashes 2023, there were concerns surrounding England’s approach to Test cricket. Led by Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, the team adopted an aggressive and attacking style of play, which had been successful in most matches. However, facing the formidable Australian side in the first two matches of the series proved to be a tough challenge. As the series progressed, England showcased the potential of their Bazball approach, securing victory in two of the last three Tests.

Under the new management, England has enjoyed remarkable success, winning 14 out of 18 matches. Despite this impressive record, doubts have surfaced regarding whether their Bazball strategy will be effective in India. The subcontinent pitches are known to be spinner-friendly, and it might be challenging for England to maintain the same aggressive brand of cricket that has been their hallmark.

Addressing the concerns, skipper Ben Stokes mentioned that people had doubts about the Bazball approach before the New Zealand series, the Pakistan series, and the Australia series. However, the team has proven doubters wrong on multiple occasions. Stokes expressed his confidence in the same strategy and emphasized that only time will reveal its effectiveness in India.

Ben Stokes in the press conference said “I remember when we beat New Zealand 3-0, (the chatter) was we couldn’t do it against South Africa, (we) couldn’t do it against Pakistan, (we) couldn’t do it against Australia. So who knows if we can do it against India, only time will tell.”