England’s exciting and result-oriented “Bazball” approach will face a stern test when the team embarks on a five-match Test series in India next year, according to England captain Nasser Hussain.

Under the guidance of coach Brendon “Baz” McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, England’s entertaining and aggressive approach to Test cricket won the hearts of fans. They showcased their resilience by leveling the Ashes series against Australia 2-2, after being 2-0 down.

However, the upcoming tour to India presents a different challenge altogether, with vastly different and spin-friendly conditions. During their last tour in 2021, England suffered a 3-1 defeat in India under Joe Root’s captaincy.

Speaking on the ICC Review, Nasser Hussain, who was born in Chennai, acknowledged that India in their home conditions pose one of the toughest challenges in Test cricket.

“It’s the next test for Bazball,” Hussain remarked, referring to England’s approach. “The next challenge is India, and everyone knows India in India is one of the sternest challenges in Test match cricket.”

India has capitalized on their home advantage by preparing turning tracks and unleashing their skilled spinners, who have consistently troubled touring batsmen.

“It’s Bazball against spin. Bazball against Ravi Ashwin, (Ravindra) Jadeja, and Axar Patel, and that is going to be fascinating,” Hussain added.

Zak Crawley, an epitome of England’s aggressive batting style, expressed excitement about the series in India, considering it as an “amazing opportunity” to test their philosophy.

Crawley, who aggregated 67 runs in four innings during the 2021 tour, acknowledged the challenges posed by India’s seamers and the potential spin-friendly conditions.

“We’ll just have to adapt, see what we get,” Crawley said, keeping an open mind about the conditions they might face in India.

The five-match Test series is set to begin on January 29, with Hyderabad hosting the first Test. The other venues include Vizag, Ranchi, Rajkot, and Dharamsala.