The problem is no 3 and it’s been that way for a while. I think Crawley-who I thought would make decent runs-should be left out, Pope is borderline because he hasn’t done enough-but might do if he’s kept in.
I’ve thought for ages Root should be 3 because we have so many middle order players, Lawrence the latest of them, but that exposes our best batsman in a position he doesn’t want, so it won’t be him.
There’s no easy answer to the number 3 spot. Malan possibly but that would drop Pope I think.
I’d like Malan at 3 for Oz, less sure for the india series. If they give him that and he doesn’t go well, then we have big problems.
I’m not a fan but it does almost convince we that we could almost stick a Woakes or a No at 3 just to fill the spot. He’s not have to average many for it to be a success, but it would be an odd move.
On a realistic note I’m not sure who else is on the list of realistic options, Haneed (hope they leave him at Notts for a full season), Libby, Bracey was clearly lined up for it but it’s hard to pick him there after the two tests he’s had now.
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Topic: Eng Vs New Zealand test matches (Read 38121 times)