After a resounding defeat to India in the Edgbaston Test, questions have begun to swirl around the leadership and captaincy of the England team. Former England captain Michael Atherton has made serious remarks about current captain Ben Stokes' batting proficiency and decision-making ability.
According to him, Stokes' form has been declining since he became captain. His last Test century was scored two years ago at Lord's during the Ashes. Now, as he returns to the same ground for the third Test against India, the stakes couldn't be higher.
According to Atherton, the ongoing series against India presents the biggest challenge of Stokes' three-year captaincy tenure. In his column for ‘The Times’, he wrote about the back-to-back matches, limited rest, massive defeats, and poor decisions, all while Stokes' own batting form is a growing concern as it continues to wane with each passing year.
Atherton also questioned Stokes' batting approach. He stated that as a player limited to one format, Stokes is now facing a lack of rhythm and form exactly when the team needs his leadership the most.
Source: aajtak
Praise for Gill
Atherton also heaped praises on Indian captain Shubman Gill. He remarked that while Stokes struggled against spin, Gill showcased phenomenal batting throughout the series. England targeted Gill on the leg stump, but he never appeared vulnerable to dismissal.
Opportunity for Archer and Gus
In terms of bowling, Atherton advises England to consider changes. He advocates for giving Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson a chance in the Lord's Test, even as they return from fitness challenges. Although Archer has played just one first-class match in four years, he was a pivotal force against Steve Smith at Lord’s in 2019. Atkinson, meanwhile, has claimed 19 wickets in two Tests at Lord's so far. Playing them involves a gamble but bringing freshness is critical.
Woakes' Form a Concern
Atherton raised concerns about Chris Woakes, who has only taken 3 wickets at an average of 96 in the series so far. He emphasized that Stokes should avoid making drastic changes out of panic. “I wouldn't alter the batting order, but I'd bring in Archer and Atkinson as fast bowlers.” The third Test will be played at Lord's starting Thursday, where England aims for a comeback and Stokes faces the greatest test of his leadership yet.