Following India's emphatic 336-run victory over England at Edgbaston, which leveled the five-Test series at 1-1, former England bowler Stuart Broad has issued a stern warning to the home side. As the series heads to Lord’s for the third Test, Broad highlighted the potency of the Indian bowling attack.
England captain Ben Stokes in talks with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith in Birmingham. (Getty Images)
Broad, speaking on Sky Sports, suggested the Indian bowling attack could be a major concern for the England batting lineup. He emphasized the natural slope at Lord's, which favors bowlers who can exploit movement.
"This Indian bowling attack would worry me if I was in that England batting lineup," Broad stated. "The ball just nips down that slope at Lord’s. Akash Deep brings the stumps into play, and if it swings, Bumrah will be lethal with the late movement.”
The young Indian team, led by Shubman Gill, appears settled and confident after their historic win at Edgbaston. Gill's impressive performance, with a match tally of 430 runs, and Akash Deep's stunning 10-wicket haul have boosted the team's morale.
With Jasprit Bumrah set to return for the third Test, former England captain Mark Butcher believes India is unlikely to make significant changes to their lineup. “Bumrah will come back, and the rest will stay the same,” Butcher predicted.
Kumar Sangakkara echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep are likely to retain their places in the team. He also noted that Washington Sundar's inclusion at No. 8 provides valuable balance to the side.
England, on the other hand, are contemplating changes to their pace attack. Broad acknowledged Chris Woakes's struggles but highlighted his strong record at Lord's. He also cautioned against rushing Jofra Archer or Gus Atkinson into the team without adequate match fitness.
“England play well at Lord’s,” Broad added, “but this Indian attack — especially with Bumrah back — could pose a serious threat.”
As the third Test approaches, the focus is on India’s reinvigorated pace attack, which poses a significant challenge for the England batsmen.
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