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Sport: CricketCountry: EnglandCategory: Scores & Results

McCullum expresses confidence in Stokes' batting form ahead of series

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 11:00 AM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

McCullum expresses confidence in Stokes' batting form ahead of series
Summary

Brendon McCullum voiced confidence that England captain Ben Stokes will soon return to form despite a lackluster start in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, where Stokes scored 12 and nought. Stokes struggled throughout the Ashes with an average of 18, but McCullum believes his fluency is improving. Stokes was moved down the batting order to alleviate some pressure. Following the conclusion of the Test series against New Zealand, Stokes may participate in the One-Day Cup if fit.

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Status Watch
  • •Stokes scored 12 and nought in the first Test against New Zealand.
  • •McCullum claims Stokes' batting is improving and confidence is returning.
  • •Stokes' batting average has dropped to 32 as captain.
  • •He might participate in the One-Day Cup after the Test series.
  • •The next three-Test series begins against Pakistan in August.
Latest Updates
  • 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — McCullum backs captain Stokes to find batting form
  • 11:00 AMBBC Sport — McCullum backs captain Stokes to find batting form
What they're saying
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England captain Ben Stokes’ batting is “not too far away” from a return to form, says head coach Brendon McCullum.

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England captain Ben Stokes’ batting is “not too far away” from a return to form, says head coach Brendon McCullum.

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