The 3rd Test match between India and England at Lord’s delivered more than just cricketing action, as star players Rishabh Pant and Ben Stokes engaged in some memorable banter right in the middle of the pitch.
When Batters Banter
The lively exchange unfolded during the first session of Day 3, when India’s Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul were frustrating England’s bowlers with their steady partnership. England captain Ben Stokes decided to try and get under their skin.
“Just batting for a draw?” Stokes quipped to Pant. Without missing a beat, Pant shot back, “Me?” Stokes confirmed, and Pant’s retort was quick: “Same like you?”
Stokes, known for his on-field character, took the jab in stride. “Yeah. Same like me bro. That’s me playing on Day 1,” he conceded, referencing his team’s unusually slow start to the match.
“Bazball” on Pause?
Stokes’ self-deprecating remark was a nod to England’s uncharacteristic batting performance on Day 1. Their renowned “Bazball” approach, known for aggressive, fast-paced cricket, seemed to have taken a backseat, much to the surprise of many.
England had crawled to their first 100 runs in 35.4 overs, marking their slowest century in a home Test. This sluggish pace was a stark contrast to their usual free-flowing style under coach Brendon McCullum (nicknamed Baz) and captain Stokes.
India’s Players Join the Fun
The Indian camp was quick to pick up on England’s slow run rate. India skipper Shubman Gill was heard sarcastically remarking, “No more entertaining cricket. Welcome back to the boring Test cricket, boys,” as England’s run rate dipped below three per over.
Later, fast bowler Mohammed Siraj also got in on the act, playfully challenging England’s star batter Joe Root. “Where is the Bazball? Baz Baz Bazball, come on I want to see,” Siraj was heard saying, adding to the lighter side of the intense contest.
The Action on the Pitch
Despite the banter, India continued to make progress in their innings. Rishabh Pant scored a valuable 74 before being run out by Ben Stokes himself just before lunch on Day 3. KL Rahul also contributed significantly, playing some elegant drives and flicks.
Their partnership helped India chip away at England’s first-innings total of 387. Pant reached his half-century with a magnificent hooked six off Stokes, showcasing his aggressive style even amidst the verbal exchanges.
- Ben Stokes and Rishabh Pant engaged in witty banter during the 3rd India vs England Test.
- Stokes admitted his own team’s slow Day 1 batting, contrasting it with their “Bazball” philosophy.
- Indian players Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj also poked fun at England’s uncharacteristically slow run rate.
- The exchanges added a layer of entertainment to the competitive Test match at Lord’s.
These lighthearted moments often add an extra layer of entertainment to high-stakes cricket, reminding fans of the camaraderie and competitive spirit within the game.
