Ben Stokes Reacted Strongly as India Targeted Zak Crawley: Stuart Broad

Stokes Fired Up by India’s Crawley Tactics on Day 3, Says Broad.

England captain Ben Stokes delivered one of his grittiest spells in recent memory on the final day at Lord’s, and former teammate Stuart Broad believes it was India’s targeting of Zak Crawley on Day 3 that lit the fire. Despite managing injuries in recent years and rarely bowling long spells, Stokes charged in for 14 overs on Day 5—his third-longest spell in Test cricket—to support Jofra Archer’s relentless attack on the Indian top order.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Broad traced the captain’s intensity back to a fiery over late on Day 3, when Indian players appeared to single out Crawley with both words and short-pitched deliveries. “What would have fired him up in this game was the Indian team targeting Zak Crawley in that one over,” said Broad. “He wouldn’t have liked the fact that one of his players was out there alone, with just Ben Duckett for company, and the team going at him.”

Broad also highlighted a noticeable shift in England’s energy and aggression from that point forward. “I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen this England team this verbal. Archer bowls the bouncer to Reddy—duck, bang—everyone’s around him, letting him know he’s under pressure. That was ignited.”

On Day 5, Stokes not only held up one end but also led the psychological battle—constantly engaging the batters, setting attacking fields, and urging his team on. “He’s telling the batters they’re under pressure, inviting them to drive, shifting the Indian mindset,” Broad said. “His team is right there with him.”

Stokes’ commitment, especially in light of his fitness concerns, drew widespread praise. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan called him the “heart of the England team,” while others on social media applauded his selfless push for victory.

With the match finely balanced, England’s captain has once again proven to be its emotional and tactical engine—fired up, locked in, and leading the charge.