Archive · 26 Dec 2025
Experts debate England batting lineup for Boxing Day Test
Michael Atherton and Geoffrey Boycott, both former England cricket captains, have different opinions about England's batting lineup for the Boxing Day Test against Australia.
Atherton supports the decision to leave out Ollie Pope because Pope has been batting poorly.
Boycott, on the other hand, thinks Harry Brook should be more careful not to give away his wicket easily.
Boycott also suggests that Ben Stokes should bat at number three instead of Pope.
Both commentators are giving advice on how England can improve their batting in the important match against Australia.
Michael Atherton supports Ollie Pope's omission due to poor form and insecurity at number three.
Geoffrey Boycott criticizes Harry Brook for giving his wicket away cheaply and urges discipline.
Boycott suggests Ben Stokes should bat at number three for better discipline and experience.
Pat Cummins' absence is seen as good news for Joe Root, who has struggled against him.
Boycott advises Brook to learn from Don Bradman and not give his wicket away easily.
- Who
- Michael Atherton, Geoffrey Boycott, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes
- What
- Debate on England's batting lineup for the Boxing Day Test against Australia
- When
- Upcoming Boxing Day Test
- Where
- Melbourne, Australia
- Why
- Discussion on player form, positioning, and strategic decisions
Michael Atherton's View
Geoffrey Boycott's View
Ollie Pope's Omission
Michael Atherton's View
Supports Pope's omission due to poor form and insecurity at number three.
Geoffrey Boycott's View
Does not directly address Pope's omission but suggests Ben Stokes should bat at number three.
Harry Brook's Batting Style
Michael Atherton's View
Does not comment on Brook's batting style.
Geoffrey Boycott's View
Criticizes Brook for giving his wicket away cheaply and urges him to be more disciplined.
Ben Stokes' Batting Position
Michael Atherton's View
Does not comment on Stokes' batting position.
Geoffrey Boycott's View
Suggests Stokes should bat at number three for better discipline and experience.
- Player Omitted
- Ollie Pope
- Position
- Number 3
- Match
- Boxing Day Test against Australia
- Venue
- Melbourne
- Commentators
- Michael Atherton, Geoffrey Boycott
- Pope's Average Away
- Below 30
- Pope's Average vs Australia
- 17
- Suggested Number 3
- Ben Stokes
Sources
‘No. 3 position carries special status’ : Michael Atherton reacts to Ollie Pope’s omission from England’s playing XI for Boxing Day Test against Australia
Former England Captain Backs Dropping Ollie Pope But Attacks Brendon McCullum: 'Painful Reminder Of How...'
‘Waste of talent’: Geoffrey Boycott offers advice to Harry Brook ahead of Boxing Day Test match against Australia
'What A Waste Of Talent'! England Legend Critiques Harry Brook, Pleads: 'Nobody Wants To Rein...'
