I'm sure Ben Stokes has got plans for India Test and next series too: Joe Root

Ace English batter Joe Root believes that England captain Ben Stokes has got the plans for the upcoming rescheduled Test match against India at Edgbaston, Birmingham, and the series after that as well. Meanwhile, Stokes credited the newly appointed head coach Brendon McCullum and the backroom staff for the 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand.

Stokes, regarding the series win over New Zealand, called it “phenomenal”, adding that it was about the change of mindset towards Test cricket. He said that salvaging a victory from being at 55/6 in the first innings of the third Test match was the “most pleasing thing”. He believes that it has set a level for people coming into the Test match, as he also lauded debutant Matthew Potts for the way he took the opportunity on this stage.

India are a different opposition but we will come out with the same mindset: Ben Stokes

“It has gone really well. A 3-0 win against the best team in the world; it’s absolutely phenomenal. It’s about the change of the mindset of the lads towards Test cricket,” Stokes was quoted as saying by News 18. “Huge credit to Brendon (McCullum) and the backroom staff. Trent Bridge (2nd Test) was incredible but being 55/6 and then doing what we did and the manner in which we did was the most pleasing thing.”

“It has really set the level people want to come in and perform for the Test side. (Matthew) Potts has taken it like fish to water. (Stuart) Broad, even at 36, bowling these many overs, and fantastic to see (Jack) Leach,” added the England Test captain. He said that the team was made in such a manner that players who could offer the best in every position were picked.

“India are a different opposition but we will come out with the same mindset,” said Stokes. On the other hand, Root, who was the Player of the Series against New Zealand along with Daryl Mitchell, said it is important that the team enjoys the series. He said that the focus should be given to what the team has achieved over the last few weeks. Speaking about the upcoming Test match against India, he said, “I am sure Ben (Stokes) has got the plans for the India Test and the next series as well.”