As anticipation builds for the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England, England captain Ben Stokes has delivered a bold statement about India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking to the media ahead of the first Test beginning Friday, Stokes acknowledged Bumrah’s quality but made it clear that England doesn’t fear him. He emphasized that while Bumrah is a world-class bowler, he alone cannot decide the outcome of the series.

“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,” Stokes said. “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.

The England skipper's comments reflect a broader philosophy of collective performance over individual brilliance. England’s squad is focused on unity and balance heading into this crucial contest, aiming to neutralize threats through disciplined team effort rather than relying on any one player to deliver match-winning performances.

Root Looks to Repay Stokes Through Consistent Batting

Meanwhile, Joe Root opened up about his role in the current England setup under Stokes’ leadership. Root, who captained England from 2017 to 2022, now sees it as his responsibility to support Stokes with consistent run-scoring. The veteran batter has scored 3,117 of his 13,006 Test runs since stepping down, averaging 56.67 during what he describes as the most enjoyable phase of his career.

See Also: India batter faces injury scare ahead of first Test against England: Know the reason

"Ben did so much for me as my vice-captain; now it's my turn to give a bit back to him. It was difficult and weird coming back into the team after being leader. I didn't want to get in Ben's way or step on his toes, but I wanted him to know I was there to support him," Root told Skt Sports. "I knew a big part of that was scoring runs. I wanted to make sure I could affect games with the bat, and clearly, if I was following his lead as a former captain, it sends a strong message to anyone coming into the team or not as established as myself," he added.