England captain Ben Stokes has defended his team's ultra-aggressive batting approach despite a crushing 434-run defeat to India in the third Test at Rajkot. The loss leaves England trailing 2-1 in the five-match series.
The Bazball Philosophy Under Scrutiny
Stokes insisted England won't abandon their high-risk 'Bazball' strategy, even after being bowled out for 122 in their second innings while chasing an improbable 557 for victory. "Our batting lineup is full of international-class players," Stokes stated. "We give them the freedom to play what's in front of them."
Duckett's Century Overshadowed by Collapse
Ben Duckett's brilliant 153 in England's first innings total of 319 was overshadowed by their dramatic second innings collapse. India posted 445 and 430/4 declared, with Yashasvi Jaiswal hitting a magnificent double century.
Stokes Backs Under-Fire Batsmen
The England captain refused to criticise individual performances, including Zak Crawley's first-innings dismissal when well set on 15. "Zak's been one of our best players in the series," Stokes said. "We don't look at dismissals and judge whether they're good or bad."
Looking Ahead to Fourth Test
With the series finely poised, England have time to regroup before the fourth Test in Ranchi beginning February 23. Stokes remains confident their aggressive approach can still deliver success in the subcontinent.
