STokes vs India web ST

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England’s Test captain Ben Stokes has put forth a strong message to their next opponent India before the two teams go head-to-head in the final Test match from their 2021 five-game series. Ben Stokes talked about how the team will be tackling the Indian team with the same vigour and aggression they displayed against New Zealand. 

"Trust me when I say this. We'll be coming out with exactly the same (aggressive) mindset, even though it's a different opposition," Ben Stokes said on Monday. "Obviously, it's going to be a completely different... different opposition, with their attack and players as well. We'll be concentrating on what we've done well over these last three games and look to continue that against India on Friday."

I’ve got to show a huge amount of testament to the team over these three games: Stokes

Ben Stokes then talked about how proud he is of his team, especially after white-washing the number one ranked Test team in the world. He said, “To walk away with a 3-0 series win over the best team in the world is a pretty special start. I’ve got to show a huge amount of testament to the team over these three games. They’ve been absolutely phenomenal.” Stokes took over the team’s leadership after Joe Root renounced the position after England’s 0-1 series defeat against the West Indies in April 2022. 

Huge amount of credit to Brendon: Ben Stokes

He then talked praised their new head coach Brendon McCullum for his approach to the team. Ben Stokes then addressed how he wanted to create a shift in the team’s mindset. He said,  “When I took over this job, it was about changing the mindset of the guys towards Test cricket, was about having fun. Huge amount of credit to Brendon (McCullum) and the backroom staff. Trent Bridge was fantastic.”

Fantastic to see Leachy taking 10 wickets: Stokes

Ben Stokes also discussed England’s last game of the series and praised his teammates. He said, “Being 55/6 and to do what we did the manner we did (here), that was something special. Pottsy has taken it like fish to water. This game, he's been incredible. Broady, even at 36, bowled 50 overs this week. I wanted to push the lads to see what they were capable. Fantastic to see Leachy taking 10 wickets”