IND vs ENG / 'We will not sit quiet'- Stokes gave an open warning to Team India before the fourth Test

IND vs ENG: The atmosphere is heating up ahead of the fourth Test match between India and England starting in Manchester from 23 July 2025. England is leading 2-1 in this exciting five-match Test series, and now both teams are ready for this important match. In the press conference held before the match, England captain Ben Stokes said something that has made headlines. Stokes has given an open warning to the Indian team regarding sledging, which has added more excitement to this Test match.

Ben Stokes' statement: Answer sledging with sledging

In the press conference, Ben Stokes clearly said, "We will not deliberately start sledging on the field, as it may divert our attention from the game. But if the Indian players adopt an aggressive attitude, then our team will also not back down." Stokes also added that there is often a moment in Test cricket when the atmosphere gets heated, and this series has also not been untouched by it.

He said, "This is a big series, and both teams are under pressure to perform well. We do not believe in sledging, but if someone challenges us, we will not hesitate to answer it. This is not just about our team, most teams do this."

Excitement of the series and the journey so far

Three matches have been played so far in this five-match Test series, and every match has lasted till the fifth day. Both teams have displayed great cricket, which has entertained the audience. England won the first and third Tests, while India won the second Test at their NAM. Now the fourth Test is very important for both teams. India needs to win this match to level the series, while England would like to move towards winning the series with this win.

Sledging: Part of the game or unnecessary stress?

This statement of Ben Stokes brings the issue of sledging back into discussion. Sledging has long been a strategy in cricket, which players use to distract the players of the opposing team. However, Stokes made it clear that his team's focus will remain on the game, but it will not hesitate to respond to any aggression.

What does the Indian team say?

The Indian captain has not yet given any direct response to this statement, but it is certain that the Indian players will also be ready for this challenge. There are many uncut players in the Indian team, who are known for their aggression on the field. It will be interesting to see if this press conference statement will have any effect on the field.

Importance of Manchester Test

Manchester's Old Trafford ground has always been a challenging venue for Test cricket. The pitch here is famous for fast bowlers and swing bowling. Both teams will try to adapt their strategy according to the pitch. For India, this match is an opportunity to make a comeback in the series, while England will want to strengthen their grip on the series by winning it.