Stuart Broad Issues Stark Warning to England: India's Bowling Attack Poses "Serious Threat" Ahead of Lord's Test

Monday - 07/07/2025 03:26

India secured a massive win against England, leveling the series 1-1. The third Test shifts to Lord's. Stuart Broad highlights India's potent bowling attack, especially with Jasprit Bumrah's return. Shubman Gill's team is confident after their Edgbaston triumph. England focuses on strengthening their pace options. All eyes are on how England will counter India's revitalized pace attack.

Ben Stokes in conversation with Jamie Smith

England captain Ben Stokes in talks with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith in Birmingham. (Getty Images)

India's dominant 336-run victory over England at Edgbaston has leveled the five-Test series at 1-1, setting the stage for a crucial third Test at Lord's, commencing on July 10. Discussions are rife regarding team compositions and the challenge of confronting a "dangerous" Indian bowling attack, as described by Stuart Broad.

"This Indian bowling attack would worry me if I was in that England batting lineup," Broad stated during a Sky Sports panel discussion following India’s victory. "The ball just nips down that slope at Lord’s. Akash Deep brings the stumps into play, and if it swings, Bumrah will be lethal with the late movement."

Shubman Gill’s youthful Indian team, buoyed by their first Test win at Edgbaston, appears settled and confident. Gill led the charge with a match total of 430 runs (269 and 161), while Akash Deep made a significant impact in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, claiming a remarkable 10-wicket haul.

With Bumrah's return anticipated, former England captain Mark Butcher believes India is unlikely to make many changes. "Bumrah will come back, and the rest will stay the same," Butcher predicted.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara concurred, stating, "Siraj and Akash Deep will play. Prasidh Krishna might make way for Bumrah. And they’ll probably retain Washington Sundar at No. 8 for the balance he offers.”

England, on the other hand, is focused on revitalizing its pace attack. Broad noted that "[Chris] Woakes hasn’t had great success and was unlucky, but his Lord’s record is outstanding." He also cautioned against rushing Jofra Archer or Gus Atkinson into the squad without adequate match fitness.

"England play well at Lord’s," Broad added, "but this Indian attack — especially with Bumrah back — could pose a serious threat.”

As the third Test approaches, it is India’s reinvigorated pace attack, not just their captain, that has placed England on high alert.