LONDON– With the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy tied 1-1 heading into the third Test at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, England captain Ben Stokes said his team is fully prepared to come out strong against India in the five-day contest starting July 10.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Stokes emphasized that the series was always expected to be a closely fought battle, given the quality on both sides.
“This was always going to be a series where momentum swings back and forth,” he said. “The results were bound to fluctuate because you’ve got two very good teams competing. We came out on top at Headingley, and they responded at Edgbaston. When top sides clash, this is what you get.”
Stokes added, “We don’t feel like we have the edge over anyone. We respect every opponent. But we’ll be coming out this week looking to hit them hard and, of course, aiming for the win.”
England started the series with a historic chase at Headingley, where they pulled off the second-highest successful run chase in Test history on English soil, overhauling a 371-run target with five wickets in hand. India bounced back in the second Test at Edgbaston, securing a landmark victory—India’s first-ever Test win at the venue—powered by a brilliant innings from Shubman Gill.
On Wednesday, England announced their playing XI for the Lord’s Test. Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been included in the side, replacing Josh Tongue. Archer, who has taken 42 wickets in 13 Tests at an average of 31.04, will be making his return to Test cricket for the first time since February 2021.
Stokes expressed his excitement over having Archer back in the lineup.
“It’s really exciting—not just for us but also for English fans. And especially for Jof,” said Stokes. “He’s been through a lot with injuries. The way he’s handled those setbacks and worked his way back into the side is truly commendable.”
“I think Jof’s going to be proud of himself. After two major injury scares, to return and play at this level again—it says a lot about his resilience.”
The five-match Test series continues to build momentum, with both teams hungry for dominance as they head into the third clash at the spiritual home of cricket. (Source: IANS)
