Geoffrey Boycott Urges England to Rethink ODI Leadership and Batting Strategy

Former England opener Geoffrey Boycott has called for a cautious approach in appointing Harry Brook as England’s ODI captain, following the team’s dismal performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Writing in his column a news paper, Boycott emphasized the need for a strategic overhaul of England’s 50-over setup, which he described as “too comfortable” and in need of “a kick up the backside.”

### England’s Champions Trophy Woes

England’s campaign ended in disaster, with the team losing all three group-stage matches, marking their third consecutive ICC white-ball tournament failure. Jos Buttler stepped down as captain after a shocking defeat to Afghanistan, leaving Brook as the frontrunner for the role. However, Boycott has cautioned against rushing the 26-year-old into leadership, citing his lack of experience in ODI cricket.

### Boycott’s Concerns About Brook

“Making him [Brook] captain in the 50-over team would be a gamble,” Boycott wrote. “He has not mastered that type of cricket yet. It is more important to decide on the team’s composition and, if necessary, appoint a stop-gap leader who can inspire and get the best out of the players.”

Boycott also criticized Brook’s batting approach in ODIs, suggesting that he plays as if it were T20 cricket. He urged the coaching staff to guide Brook in adapting his game to the longer format, emphasizing the importance of building innings with maturity.

### Criticism of England’s Batting Line-Up

Boycott did not hold back in his assessment of England’s batting order. He questioned Phil Salt’s suitability as an opener and labeled the decision to promote Jamie Smith to No.3 as “ridiculous.” While he acknowledged Liam Livingstone’s potential, Boycott expressed frustration over the all-rounder’s inconsistency, particularly when batting at No.7.

“He [Livingstone] comes in, whacks a couple of boundaries, and then gets out,” Boycott remarked. “Move him up to No.5 and make it clear that England need more from him. It’s sink-or-swim time now.”

### A Call for Strategic Changes

Boycott’s recommendations include moving Brook to No.3 to take on greater responsibility and promoting Livingstone to No.5 to maximize his potential. He stressed the importance of players understanding match situations and delivering consistently, rather than relying on sporadic moments of brilliance.

As England grapples with the fallout from their Champions Trophy exit, Boycott’s insights highlight the urgent need for a recalibrated approach to both leadership and batting strategy. The road to recovery will require tough decisions and a renewed focus on building a competitive and adaptable ODI side.