Ian Bell is expecting England to double down on their aggressive style in the second Ashes Test.

England’s confident opening innings in the first Test was illustrated by Zak Crawley’s four off the opening ball and underpinned by Ben Stokes’ decision to declare after just 78 overs. The all-action ‘Bazball’ approach came up slightly short at Edgbaston as Australia chased down 281 to win by two wickets.

Bell was part of four Ashes-winning sides throughout his career and scored a century at Lord’s during the 2013 series. However, the former England batsman believes that sticking with their uncompromising playing style could be the key to helping the team earn an important victory and issue an instant response to Australia.

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“I know Australia have a good record at Lord’s and they will be confident,” Warwickshire legend Bell told Betfair. “In the aftermath of Edgbaston I think we are all excited to see how England bounce back.

“But I’m hoping England are very aggressive. We won’t need to wait long to find out. Will it take Australia by surprise if England come even harder? I’m not sure. They know who they’re up against and I don’t think they will think ‘hang on, we’re the team who are one-up?’.

“This is Ashes cricket and both sides have teed up this match to be an absolute classic. There is so much on the line, but every player will be so excited to get out there. Nothing beats playing at Lord’s and to do it at this juncture of the series is an enthralling prospect. “And if England take the spoils this time around, 1-1 will set us up perfectly for the remainder.”

The second Test at Lord's will get underway at 11am on Wednesday, June 28.