Ben Stokes all riled up after India targeted Zak Crawley on Day 3: Stuart Broad-OxBig News Network

England captain Ben Stokes has been fired up since the start of Day 5 at Lord’s, and former teammate Stuart Broad believes the spark may have come from India’s targeted tactics against Zak Crawley on Day 3 of the ongoing Test.

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Stokes, who bowled the final over on Day 4, came back for a mammoth 14-over spell on the final day—his third-longest in Test cricket. Despite being an injury-prone player with a limited bowling workload in recent years, Stokes pushed through, holding one end tightly while Jofra Archer ripped through the Indian top order.

Speaking on Sky Sports Cricket, Broad suggested that Stokes was motivated by India’s aggressive approach towards Crawley earlier in the match. During a hostile over late on Day 3, the Indian players appeared to single Crawley out, verbally and tactically, something that didn’t go unnoticed by the England skipper.

“What would have fired him up in this game was the Indian team targeting Zak Crawley in that one over,” Broad said. “It was great fun, brilliant to watch, but he wouldn’t have liked the fact that one of his players was out there alone, with just Ben Duckett for company, and the team going at him.”

Broad also pointed out the increased verbal energy from the England players since then. “I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen this England team this verbal. Archer bowls the bouncer to Reddy—duck, bang—everyone’s around him, letting him know he’s under pressure. That was ignited.”

The aggression has added an edge to the contest, which had been relatively subdued in the earlier days. Broad believes Stokes is leading from the front in injecting energy into the side.

“Stokes is bowling and chatting, telling the batters they’re under pressure, inviting them to drive. He’s creating a mental battle and trying to shift the Indian mindset. His team is right there with him.”

Stokes’ resilience has earned praise on social media as well. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan hailed him as the “heart of the England team,” while journalist Vikrant Gupta along with several others lauded his willingness to put workload concerns aside for the team.

While Stokes has helped put England in a strong position, they still need to wrap up the Indian tail. The final moments at Lord’s are finely poised, with both teams pushing for a dramatic finish.

– Ends

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