'The next test for Bazball': Ex-England captain warns Ben Stokes & Co ahead of India tour

In a thrilling turn of events, the England men's cricket team achieved a remarkable victory over Australia in the fifth Ashes Test, leveling the fiercely contested five-match series 2-2. Initially trailing 2-0 after the first two Tests, England displayed great determination to make a fantastic comeback, securing a win in the third match. Unfortunately, the fourth Test in Manchester ended in a draw due to persistent rainfall. Although Australia had already retained the Ashes urn, England showcased their true grit and brilliance in the final match, putting on a sensational performance to level the series and avoid any sense of embarrassment.

3 things you need to know

• England are currently ranked No. 5 on the WTC 2023-25 points table
• Defending champions Australia, on the other hand, are placed third
• England will next be seen in action in Tests against India

Also Read: Nathan Lyon Aspires A Comeback In The Upcoming Ashes Series After Injury Slowed Him Down

Nasser Hussain fires warning at England

England's dynamic and entertaining 'Bazball' approach is set to face a significant challenge when the team embarks on a five-match test series in India next year, according to former English captain Nasser Hussain. Led by head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, England's results-driven approach to the longest format thrilled fans as they made an impressive comeback to level the Ashes series against Australia, despite being down 2-0.

However, their mettle will be tested in spin-friendly conditions in India, where they suffered a 3-1 series defeat during their last tour in 2021. Joe Root was the England captain at the time. Hussain acknowledged that facing India in India is one of the most challenging tasks in Test cricket. India has a history of utilizing home advantage by preparing turning tracks and unleashing their skillful spinners who have proved to be tormenting for touring batsmen, especially from SENA countries.

“It’s the next test for Bazball. The next challenge is India and everyone knows India in India is one of the sternest challenges in test match cricket. It’s Bazball against spin. Bazball against Ravi Ashwin, (Ravindra) Jadeja and Axar Patel and that is going to be fascinating,” Hussain said.

Also Read: ICC Breaks Silence On Ball Change Saga During Final Ashes Test After Aussies Sought Probe

The first Test of the five-match series is scheduled to begin in Hyderabad on January 29, with Vizag, Ranchi, Rajkot, and Dharamsala hosting the subsequent matches. England's tour of India promises to be a captivating contest between two contrasting styles of cricket. England have recently started playing a new form of explosive cricket in red-ball format, taking teams by surprise.  

Image: AP