England is traditionally associated with green, seaming pitches that test even the best batters, but the ongoing India Test series against India has produced unusually flat tracks.
It is widely believed that the 'Bazball' philosophy, which puts importance on scoring as many runs as possible has influenced such pitch preparations.
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After Ben Stokes described the second Test surface as "subcontinent-like," his former teammate Stuart Broad supported him, dismissing claims that England are requesting flatter wickets.
Speaking from his experience during the early days of the Stokes-McCullum era, Broad insisted that Bazball thrives on excitement, not on "boring cricket."
Stuart Broad backs Ben Stokes comments on the Edgbaston pitch
During Broad and Buttler's appearance on The Grade Cricketer's podcast, the former pacer was asked if England would want a flat pitch at Lord's to chase totals.
"[The Edgbaston pitch was] Much slower and had less movement than what they were hoping for. They wanted more bounce and pace because it makes the ball easier to strike as well. I don't think England are asking for the flat pitches that get better to chase," said Broad.
Comparing the first two Test pitches, Broad noted that the Headingley surface offered far more consistency, with good carry to the slips and conditions that favored seamers, which is exactly the kind of wicket England prefers as it suits their strength in chasing down totals.
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"England doesn't want pitches that lean on boring cricket. They want things to move the whole time. I saw Brendon McCullum say that they want more movement on the Lord's pitch, but I guess it's too late now to request something."
"They would have asked for that months ago and tried to apply a little bit of pressure to the ground staff not to shave that last bit of grass," he added.
How does the Lord's pitch usually play?
Lord’s is traditionally known to assist seamers. The venue's slope, combined with typical English weather conditions, makes it a favourable wicket for swing and seam movement, particularly with the red ball.
The last time India played a Test at Lord’s, they produced a memorable victory by defending 272 runs on the final day. In a dramatic finish, India bowled England out for just 120 in 51.5 overs.
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With the series now level after India’s emphatic comeback, the third Test at Lord’s starting July 10 becomes crucial as both teams look to take the lead.