Former England cricketer Mark Butcher has raised concerns about captain Ben Stokes moving down to number seven in the batting order for the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s. Stokes has predominantly batted at number six, with only 17 innings at number seven, leading to a decline in his batting performance since the 2023 Ashes, averaging 28.17 from 23 matches with one century and seven fifties.
Butcher expressed confusion over Stokes’ decision to drop down the order, suggesting that Stokes might have made this move to focus on his bowling skills. Drawing a comparison to Ian Botham’s versatile role in the 1980s, Butcher emphasized the importance of Stokes regaining his top form with the bat by batting at number six.
England is set to play two more Tests against New Zealand at The Oval on June 17 and Trent Bridge on June 25. Butcher further emphasized the significance of Stokes’ role in providing stability to the team’s batting lineup, especially alongside players like Joe Root and Jamie Smith, highlighting the need for Stokes to play at a higher position in the order.
Expressing surprise at Jofra Archer’s absence from the Lord’s Test, Butcher questioned the decision not to utilize Archer, who was part of the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2026. Butcher highlighted the importance of utilizing Archer’s skills, especially in a limited summer Test match schedule, expressing disbelief at the reasoning behind his exclusion.
