England to Swap Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith in Batting Order for Upcoming Test Against New Zealand Ben Stokes is set to move down the batting order to No. 7 in England’s lineup for the first Test against New Zealand next week, with wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith replacing the England captain at No. 6. The decision, confirmed by head coach Brendon McCullum, reflects Stokes’ declining effectiveness with the bat and his growing emphasis on bowling as an allrounder. Stokes’ recent performance in the 4-1 Ashes series highlighted his struggles, with an average of 18.40 and a strike rate of 36.58, while he remained England’s most consistent seamer, taking 15 wickets at 25.13. McCullum emphasized that the swap is part of a broader strategy to optimize the team’s batting order, acknowledging both players’ strengths when they are at their peak. “There are conversations we are having around switching Jamie Smith and Stokesy around,” McCullum said at a sponsors event. “Both are brilliant players when they’re at their best. They’re free-flowing, when they’re going well. It’s how we get the best out of those two based on the group around them and what’s required. That’s certainly a conversation we are having. Not quite yet [decided], but more leaning towards it.” Stokes, who has been preparing for a larger role with the ball for his county, Durham, after months of rehabilitation, will retain the final say on the swap. Despite Smith’s struggles against Australia—where he scored 211 runs at 23.44—he remains a valuable asset to the team. Smith averages 41.48 across 20 caps and has shown strong form since joining the side in 2024. His recent performances in the County Championship, including two centuries at No. 3 for Surrey, and 450 runs at 50.00 leading into the Vitality Blast, underscore his potential.#new_zealand #england #brendon_mccullum #ben_stokes #jamie_smith
Two England Players Refuse IPL Contracts. Report Makes Stunning Claim The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is facing significant challenges as multiple franchises grapple with player injuries ahead of the 19th edition. Reports indicate that several key players are expected to miss the tournament, with some unable to participate in the early stages due to ongoing medical issues. In an effort to address the talent gap, IPL franchises reportedly approached two England-based cricketers, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue, to serve as replacements. However, both players declined the offers, according to a recent report. The Telegraph highlighted that Smith and Tongue were sought by IPL teams to fill voids left by injured squad members. Despite their potential, neither player was signed during the IPL 2026 auction, where Smith’s base price was set at Rs 2 crore and Tongue’s at Rs 1 crore. Their refusal to join the league adds to the growing list of high-profile absences, further complicating the tournament’s preparations. The situation has also impacted England’s domestic cricket plans. Ben Duckett, a batter who was purchased by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore during the IPL 2026 auction, has withdrawn from his contract to prioritize his readiness for England’s home summer schedule. Duckett, who has never played in the IPL, cited the need to focus on physical and mental preparation for upcoming Tests against New Zealand and Pakistan. His decision comes as England prepares to host India in a series of T20Is and ODIs in July. In a social media post, Duckett expressed regret for the disruption caused by his withdrawal, acknowledging the disappointment of Delhi Capitals fans.#indian_premier_league #delhi_capitals #ben_duckett #jamie_smith #josh_tongue
