London, June 3 (IANS) Former England batter Mark Butcher has expressed reservations over skipper Ben Stokes’ decision to drop down to number seven in the batting order for the first Test against New Zealand, starting at Lord’s on Thursday.Stokes has batted only 17 times out of 216 innings in Tests, compared to 131 times at number six. His batting returns have dipped since the 2023 Ashes, averaging 28.17 from 23 matches with one century and seven fifties.“Why does he need to drop down to se…
Latest Ian Botham News & Updates
Melbourne, Dec 26 (IANS) Australia held a 46-run lead on day one of the Boxing Day Test after the hosts were bowled out for 152 and England replied with an even limper 110 as a record 20 wickets fell on the first day of the fourth Ashes Test here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.The last time 20 or more wickets fell on the first day of an Ashes Test in Australia was back in 1901-02, an era where cricket was played on uncovered pitches.After England won the toss and opted to field first,…