Ben Stokes’ comments ahead of the third Test at Lord’s reveal a captain under pressure but still determined to fight. His acknowledgment of India’s strength — especially after the heavy defeat at Edgbaston — shows both respect and realism. England started the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy with a brilliant chase in Leeds, but the tables turned drastically in Birmingham, where they were outclassed in all departments.
India’s pace duo of Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj dismantled the English batting, while Shubman Gill’s twin centuries (269 and 161) added to England’s misery. Now, with Jasprit Bumrah returning, the Indian attack looks even more lethal.
In response, England have made a bold move by recalling Jofra Archer, whose return could provide much-needed firepower — though his fitness over five days remains a concern given his injury history.
Stokes’ own form is another focal point. His average of just 19 in 2025 and lack of any significant score in the series so far is worrying, especially when compared to Gill’s red-hot form. While he referred to his Ashes century at Lord’s in 2023, he also acknowledged that it's in the past — yet his hint that "another big score is just around the corner" sounds like both a hope and a quiet self-reminder.
Stokes’ concern over the Dukes ball going soft early echoes a larger debate. He pointed out inconsistencies in the balls and even suggested doubts over the measuring rings. His remarks line up with Gill’s earlier criticism, suggesting bowlers on both sides have struggled to get the movement expected from a traditional English ball.
England’s larger issue, though, might be the venue itself. Lord’s has not been a happy hunting ground for them in recent times against India — with notable Indian wins in 2014 and 2021. That history, combined with a strong Indian pace attack and England’s fragile batting, raises the stakes significantly.
Ultimately, the third Test could hinge on:
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England’s ability to post a competitive first-innings total, especially with Stokes, Root, and Bairstow all needing runs.
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Jofra Archer’s impact in his comeback.
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Bumrah’s return, which could tilt the balance back in India’s favor, especially if the pitch offers movement.
It’s a make-or-break moment in the series — and Stokes’ England must deliver, or risk surrendering momentum permanently to a surging Indian side.
