BCCI President Roger Binny Points Finger at Ben Stokes’ Leadership Style for England’s India Series Defeat

March 7, 2024 0 865

BCCI president Roger Binny attributed England’s series downfall against India to Ben Stokes’ aggressive captaincy, noting a lack of adaptability in approach compared to Rohit Sharma’s patient tactics.

BCCI president Roger Binny believes Ben Stokes’ aggressive captaincy has played a significant role in England’s downfall during the India series. Despite England’s initial success in winning the first Test, they faced three consecutive losses, resulting in surrendering the series with one game left.

Binny, in conversation with PTI, emphasized Rohit Sharma’s contrasting approach, which he deemed more tactful compared to Stokes’ aggressive style. He also highlighted Stokes’ tendency to confront Indian spinners aggressively instead of focusing on building substantial innings. In contrast, he praised Rohit’s patience, noting how it ultimately led to India’s victory in the series.

“Well, the captaincy of Ben Stokes so far he has been more aggressive, and I think that has been the (reason for their) downfall in the few Test matches. Being so aggressive and trying to take on the Indian spinners in difficult times (situations) rather than hanging around and trying to make a big score. Rohit Sharma again has been very tactful. You know he knew exactly what he wanted to do and he got his bowlers to do that,” Binny said.

“I don’t think England changed their strategy. They went on the same attacking mode like what they did in the first Test match. But, I think, Rohit was more patient because he had the first Test in his pocket at one stage and then he let it go. He was patient enough in the next two Tests and won both,” he added.

Following their win in the Hyderabad Test, England’s batting struggles continued, with only two instances of crossing 300 in the next six innings. They currently sit eighth in the World Test Championship, contrasting India’s top position.

Binny further blamed England for their situation after a disappointing Day 1 in Dharamsala. Despite a strong start and reaching 100/1, England collapsed to 218 all out, largely due to Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin’s spin tactics. India, in reply, swiftly reached 135/1, with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring 57 before dismissal.