England captain Ben Stokes has played down any perceived threat from Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the first Test against India at Headingley, Leeds, starting June 20.
Dismissing any notion that England’s batting unit will be intimidated by the Indian pace spearhead, Stokes made it clear that the hosts are focusing on their collective strength and not losing sleep over individual brilliance. In a bold message before the start of the high-profile five-match series, Stokes emphasised on the importance of team effort over individual impact.
The England skipper’s comments come in the build-up to a highly anticipated red-ball battle, where India’s pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, is expected to pose a tough challenge on English pitches.
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Ben Stokes and Co. Unfazed by Jasprit Bumrah's Reputation
Bumrah is being seen as a key weapon in India's bid to secure their first Test series win in England since 2007. But Ben Stokes, confident in his side’s preparation and mindset, is not buying into the narrative that the outcome of the series will be decided by one man.
Stokes stressed that international cricket is all about facing world-class opposition. Speaking to the press ahead of the series opener, he said:
"No fear. 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 34-year-old acknowledged Bumrah's quality but rejected any idea that the Indian quick alone could dictate terms. Instead, he put the spotlight on team performance being the ultimate deciding factor.
"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," he added.
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Jasprit Bumrah’s Test Numbers vs England
Bumrah has built quite the reputation when it comes to bowling against England in Tests. In 14 matches against them, he has bagged 60 wickets. More impressively, nine of those matches came in England, where he has managed 37 wickets at an average of 26.27.
The Headingley Test, which kicks off the five-match contest on June 20, will see Stokes leading from the front as England look to start the series on a high note. India, meanwhile, will be counting on Bumrah to set the tone with the new ball, but if Stokes’ words are anything to go by, England are not planning to take a backward step.
