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Boycott Rebukes Brook, Urges Stokes to Bat No. 3 Before Boxing Day Test

The former opener's column heightens scrutiny of England's batting method on the eve of the Melbourne Test.

Overview

  • Sir Geoffrey Boycott called vice-captain Harry Brook "a waste of talent," saying he "bats as if it is T20" and must stop giving his wicket away.
  • Brook has 173 runs in six innings at roughly a 28 average, with pundits highlighting inconsistent dismissals including a failed reverse sweep against Nathan Lyon in Adelaide.
  • Boycott recommended a batting-order reshuffle for Melbourne, arguing Ben Stokes should move to No. 3 to absorb the new ball.
  • He suggested protecting youngster Jacob Bethell by placing him lower in the order after his inclusion as a replacement for Ollie Pope was reported in coverage.
  • With England already 3-0 down in the series, Boycott noted Pat Cummins' absence as a positive for Joe Root given the pacer's prior success against him.