Photo via Hindustan Times

‘Pig-headed’ Ben Duckett under fire for ‘irresponsible shots’ as England place comes under scrutiny

Geoffrey Boycott has voiced harsh criticism toward Ben Duckett following the opening batter's lean run throughout England's recent 3-0 sweep against Pakistan. Over five trips to the crease during the three-match series, Duckett managed tallies of only 15, 17, 1, 11, and zero.

Boycott took particular issue with the left-hander's refusal to curb his ultra-attacking instincts despite repeated failures, citing reckless dismissals at Lord's, where he slapped a catch to mid-off, and at Edgbaston, where he chased an off-stump bait while poorly positioned.

Writing in The Telegraph, Boycott insisted that national selectors should consider benching Duckett if his obstinate approach persists, emphasizing that an opener's primary duty involves withstanding the fresh ball to establish a base for downstream stroke-makers. By comparison, Boycott praised fellow opener Emilio Gay for his disciplined willingness to leave deliveries and absorb deliveries patiently.