We respect Bumrah, but we don't fear him: Ben Stokes

England Test captain Ben Stokes has stated that his team does not "fear" Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking ahead of the first Test at Headingley, Stokes acknowledged Bumrah as a world-class bowler but admitted that he does not have the ability to single-handedly win India a Test series.

Stokes emphasised that England regularly face top-quality opposition in international cricket and, while they have great respect for their rivals, fear is never part of the setup.

“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,” said Stokes ahead of the first Test.

“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 concluded.

The Indian speedster holds a sensational record against England in Test cricket. In 14 Tests against the Three Lions, Bumrah has claimed 60 wickets. His performances in English conditions have been equally impressive, he has taken 37 wickets in nine Tests at an average of 26.27. Overall, his bowling average against England stands at 22.16.

Bumrah has frequently troubled Stokes, especially with deliveries angling in from around the wicket and targeting his off stump. Even during England’s 2024 tour of India, Stokes struggled against Bumrah.

Meanwhile, England have announced their playing XI for the first Test at Headingley. Ollie Pope will bat at No. 3, ahead of young Jacob Bethell, while the pace attack will be led by Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Josh Tongue. The off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has been included as the lone specialist spinner.

England playing XI vs India in first Test:

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.