India’s New Era Begins with Shubman Gill at the Helm
As the India tour of England 2025 begins, all eyes are on a fresh Indian squad led by Shubman Gill. With three of India’s greatest Test players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin
retiring from the red-ball format, India steps into a new era. Yet, England skipper Ben Stokes believes the challenge against India remains as tough as ever.
Despite the shift in personnel, made it clear during his press conference that England is not taking the visitors lightly. The English captain emphasized that the depth of talent in Indian cricket is enough to keep any side on its toes.
Ben Stokes India’s Talent Pool is Ginormous
There’s been a lot said about no Rohit, no Virat and no Ashwin. That doesn’t mean that we think it’s going to be any easier than what it ever is against India
He went on to highlight the sheer scale and quality of India’s bench strength. Having spent time playing alongside and observing Indian players in the IPL, Ben Stokes knows just how dangerous even the youngest replacements can be.
Although Virat, Rohit and Ashwin have done amazing things for their country, that doesn’t mean the replacements will be any less tough, he added.
Ben Stokes Highlights the Threat of Bumrah but Warns Against Tunnel Vision
The English captain also addressed India’s bowling threat, particularly focusing on ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah. However, made it a point to stress that England won’t be limiting their focus to just one player.
Bumrah leading their attack, he’s a fantastic bowler. But there are 11 players on the team, and it takes a team to win a game of cricket, said Ben Stokes.
He continued, Focusing on one individual over another isn’t what we’re going to be doing. But of course, you pay respect to your opposition, and Jasprit Bumrah certainly is a fantastic bowler.
This clear headed mindset from shows England’s strategic preparation acknowledge the threats, but prepare for all round warfare.
Leadership, Respect, and the Road Ahead for England under Ben Stokes
With Ben Stokes continuing to lead England’s Test side, the team looks confident and well-drilled. His captaincy has brought an aggressive, positive brand of cricket to the red-ball format, and this series will test England’s consistency under pressure.
The departure of Indian stalwarts will surely be felt, but believes it only opens doors for the next generation of Indian talent to shine and for England to stay sharp and focused.
Three massive names missing, yes. But it is not going to be any easier for us, reiterated.
Ben Stokes on Indian Youth We Respect Whoever Wears That Jersey
In addition to praising the Indian veterans who recently retired, expressed admiration for the younger generation stepping into their shoes. The England captain stressed that wearing the Indian jersey
carries weight and the respect that comes with it remains unchanged, regardless of who’s playing. Whoever walks out to play for India deserves to be respected, said Ben Stokes. They’ve earned that
spot. It’s not going to be any less competitive just because big names are missing.
is well aware that Indian domestic cricket is a breeding ground for world-class talent. Many of India’s newer Test players have impressed in first-class tournaments and have shown great temperament
during their stints in the IPL. Stokes believes this experience will translate well into the Test arena.
Some of these younger Indian players might be making their Test returns or debuts, but they’ve already played high-pressure games in the IPL or Ranji Trophy, added. That kind of exposure makes them dangerous and we’re preparing accordingly.
As the countdown begins for the first Test in the India tour of England 2025, remains fully alert, composed, and ready to face the challenge head on