Ben Stokes is facing heat online after blaming the Edgbaston pitch for England’s 336-run defeat to India in the second Test. While India produced a clinical performance to level the series 1-1, Stokes’ post-match remarks about the surface sparked criticism, with fans accusing him of deflecting blame instead of acknowledging his team’s shortcomings.
Stokes Blames Subcontinent-style Surface
After the defeat, Stokes told BBC Test Match Special:
“It’s probably ended up being more of a subcontinent pitch as it’s got deeper and deeper into the game… With the Indian attack and the conditions that they are used to, they exposed us better.”
Despite praising India’s execution, Stokes’ tone suggested the pitch tilt played a major role in England’s failure—a stance that didn’t sit well with many fans and analysts.
Fan Backlash: ‘Own Up, Don’t Blame’
Stokes’ comments were brutally trolled on social media, where fans labeled him a “crybaby” and mocked his unwillingness to accept the team was simply outplayed.
- “Even in his beloved fortress, he blames the pitch. Typical excuse when you get battered,” wrote one user on X.
- “Akash Deep and Siraj made that ‘flat pitch’ talk look silly,” added another.
Akash Deep, Siraj Expose England on Flat Track
Contrary to Stokes’ claim of a deteriorating subcontinental surface, India’s pacers thrived at Edgbaston:
- Akash Deep: 10 wickets for 187 runs, including 6/99 in the second innings — the best match figures by an Indian in England.
- Mohammed Siraj: A fiery 6/70 in the first innings that triggered England’s collapse.
The absence of Jasprit Bumrah didn’t affect India, as the bowling unit executed plans flawlessly, exposing England’s batting frailties on what many deemed a flat surface.
Jamie Smith Lone Warrior for England
England wicketkeeper Jamie Smith emerged as a bright spot, scoring 184 and 88*, the only English batter to cross fifty in both innings. His counterattacking style gave some resistance, but it wasn’t enough to avoid England’s heaviest home Test defeat by runs.
Stokes Stays Calm Despite Loss
Stokes, however, maintained composure in his post-match comments:
“We can take being outskilled, and we’ve certainly been outskilled this week. It’s nothing to be too disheartened about.”
But fans believe accepting fault would have set a better example rather than shifting focus to conditions.
What’s Next?
- India head to Lord’s for the third Test on July 10, with Jasprit Bumrah returning.
- England have added Gus Atkinson to their squad, a sign of concern about their bowling depth.
- The series stands poised at 1-1, with India riding high on confidence and England under pressure to bounce back.
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