Kashmir Observer

England Will Come Out With Same Mindset Against India: Ben Stokes

- Press Trust of India LEEDS:

Relentless in their 3-0 sweep of New Zealand, England captain Ben Stokes said there will be no let-up in intensity against India in the upcoming reschedule­d fifth Test.

Under the leadership of Stokes and new coach Brendon McCullum, England recorded a phenomenal 3-0 win in the Test series against reigning WTC champions New Zealand, capping it off with a seven-wicket victory in the third and final match at Headingley.

The one-off Test against India, a part of last year's five-match series, which was abandoned due to a COVID-19 outbreak, will begin at Edgbaston on Friday.

"Trust me when I say this. We'll be coming out with exactly the same (aggressive) mindset, even though it's a different opposition," Stokes said on Monday.

"Obviously, it's going to be a completely different... different opposition, with their attack and players as well.

"We'll be concentrat­ing on what we've done well over these last three games and look to continue that against India on Friday."

The visitors are leading the five-match series 2-1 but will face a revitalise­d England, which comprise only four members -- Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Bairstow and James Anderson -- from last year's fourth Test against the Indians.

Stokes himself was not available for the series last year as he had taken a break to focus on his mental health.

England endured a tough time in the last few months, winning just once in 17 Tests before the New Zealand series.

Praising his teammates for turning things around, Stokes said: "To walk away with a 3-0 series win over the best team in the world is a pretty special start."

"I've got to show a huge amount of testament to the team over these three games. They've been absolutely phenomenal."

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