Broad Issues Stark Warning to England Ahead of Lord's Test Against India: 'Dangerous' Indian Attack Could Exploit Lord's Slope

Monday - 07/07/2025 03:30

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.

Following India's resounding 336-run victory over England at Edgbaston, the five-Test series is now level at 1-1. As the teams prepare for the third Test at Lord's, starting July 10, discussions are centering on team compositions and the challenge of facing what Stuart Broad has described as a "dangerous" Indian bowling attack.

Ben Stokes in discussion with Jamie Smith

England captain Ben Stokes is seen conferring with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith.

"This Indian bowling attack would worry me if I was in that England batting lineup," Broad stated during a Sky Sports panel discussion after 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, seems confident. Gill led the way with 430 runs across both innings (269 and 161), while Akash Deep impressed in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, taking a remarkable 10 wickets.

With Bumrah poised to return, former England captain Mark Butcher believes India is unlikely to make significant changes. "Bumrah will come back, and the rest will stay the same," Butcher predicted. Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara concurred, adding, "[Mohammed] 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 likely to focus on revitalizing their struggling pace attack. “[Chris] Woakes hasn’t had great success and was unlucky, but his Lord’s record is outstanding," Broad commented. He also cautioned against rushing Jofra Archer or Gus Atkinson into the team without adequate match fitness.

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

As the third Test approaches, it is India's rejuvenated pace bowling unit, not just their captain, that has put England on high alert.