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**Summary:**

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has publicly criticized England captain Ben Stokes’ captaincy decisions during the second Test against India. Kaif questioned Stokes’ tactics, including his decision to bowl first in both Tests despite favorable batting conditions, and his field placements on Day 4 when India was building a large lead. He specifically called out Stokes’ lack of attacking fields during Shubman Gill’s century. Kaif’s criticism comes as England faces a massive chase of 608 runs set by India.

**News Article:**

**Kaif Slams Stokes’ Captaincy as England Faces Huge Deficit in Second Test**

**Edgbaston, UK -** Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has launched a stinging critique of England captain Ben Stokes, questioning his tactical decisions during the ongoing second Test against India. Kaif took to social media to voice his concerns, particularly focusing on Stokes’ choice to bowl first in both Tests and his field settings on Day 4.

“I have never understood the hype around Ben Stokes the captain,” Kaif wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “On a flat track with sun shining he decides to bowl, today with some life in pitch edges flying but no extra slip… Please inform if I have missed any of his hidden leadership master stroke.”

Kaif’s criticism centers on Stokes’ decision to bowl first, a gamble that seemingly backfired as India posted substantial totals in both innings. The Indian team, led by a century from Shubman Gill, capitalized on the conditions to set England a daunting target of 608 runs.

Specifically, Kaif questioned Stokes’ lack of aggressive field placements while Gill was scoring freely, allowing India to extend their lead. “Batsmen took England to win in first Test but Stokes didn’t score many,” Kaif also pointed out.

While Stokes’ gamble paid off in the first Test at Headingley, it appears to have backfired significantly at Edgbaston. As England faces an uphill battle needing 536 runs to win on Day 5, and India needing only seven wickets, Kaif’s comments add to the pressure on the under-fire England captain. The pressure is on Stokes to perform a miracle to save the test match.

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