Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has ignited a debate surrounding England's Test captain, Ben Stokes, with some brutal criticism following England's performance in the ongoing second Test against India. Kaif stated he has "never understood the hype" around Stokes' captaincy, questioning his decision-making and overall leadership.

Kaif's criticism particularly focuses on Stokes' choices during the Edgbaston Test. He questioned Stokes' decision to bowl first on a pitch that appeared favorable to batting, especially considering India's strong batting lineup. Kaif alluded to India captain Shubman Gill's twin centuries. Gill amassed 430 runs in the match, becoming only the second batter in Test history to score that many runs in a single match.

Kaif expressed his views on social media, stating, "I have never understood the hype around Ben Stokes the captain. On a flat track with sun shining he decides to bowl, today with some life in pitch edges flying but no extra slip". He further added, "Batsmen took England to win in the first Test, but Stokes didn't score many. Please inform if I have missed any of his hidden leadership master stroke".

Stokes' captaincy has been closely linked with the term "Bazball," which describes an aggressive and fearless approach to Test cricket. Under Stokes, England has aimed to win from any situation, often at the risk of losing. However, Kaif seems unconvinced by this approach, especially when it comes to adapting to different match conditions.

Kaif isn't the only one questioning Stokes' recent form and leadership. There have been questions raised about Stokes' batting form, particularly against spin. Since the start of last year, Stokes has been dismissed by spinners 16 times out of 25 dismissals, averaging only 18.43 against spin.

Following England's loss, Stokes attributed the pitch's behavior to being more like a "subcontinent pitch", a comment that has drawn criticism and mockery. Some have interpreted this as an excuse to deflect attention from England's poor performance.

Despite the criticism, some observers have pointed out that Stokes' value to the team extends beyond just his statistics. Stokes' bowling has been a valuable asset, taking nine wickets in the series against India and Zimbabwe.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad praised Indian bowler Mohammed Siraj for dismissing Ben Stokes in the first innings of the second Test. Broad noted the aggression and emotion Siraj brought to his bowling. Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara lauded Shubman Gill for his performance in the second Test.