England’s Stokes Proud of Team’s Effort Despite Series Loss to India
India have won another test series at home and Ben Stokes’ side who were unbeaten till now in Bazball era, have now tasted first series defeat.
However, England captain Ben Stokes expressed pride in his team’s commitment despite suffering his first series defeat since taking charge, following India’s 3-1 victory in the five-match Test series.
India, unbeaten in home Test series since 2012, clinched the series with a five-wicket win in Ranchi. India, for the first time since 2013, successfully chased down a score of above 150 in fourth innings of a test at home.
After staying ahead in the game, England collapsed in their second innings, setting India a modest target of 192, the hosts found themselves in a spot of bother, slumping to 120-5.
Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir (3-79) spearheaded a spirited fightback from England, but India eventually crossed the line to secure their third consecutive win with cool minded effort from Shubman Gill and Dhruv Jurel.
“I think it was a great Test match,” Stokes said at the post-match presentation. “The scoreline suggests a comfortable win for India, but I don’t think it reflects the true story of the game.”
Stokes, captain for two years now, reiterated his consistent message to his players: “It’s about your contribution to the team, not the outcome. Everyone has put their heart and soul into every Test, leaving nothing behind on the field, and that’s all I can ask for.”
India staged a comeback despite being 1-0 down after series opener
England, despite losing the series, won the opening Test in Hyderabad and displayed competitive spirit in both Visakhapatnam and Ranchi.
With first-choice spinner Jack Leach ruled out due to a knee injury, England fielded an inexperienced spin attack featuring debutants Bashir and Tom Hartley.
“That’s how I approach captaincy – allowing these young players to experience a potentially intimidating environment like a Test match in India, to treat each ball as a new opportunity, not dwelling on the past,” Stokes explained.
“The series has showcased a lot of talent, from both sides. As a Test cricket fan, it’s been exciting to see young, inexperienced players perform well, and the future looks promising for this format,” Stokes concluded.
