Champions Trophy: Nick Knight Calls For Jos Buttler To Play More Central Role Ahead Of Afghanistan Clash

February 26, 2025: Ahead of England’s crucial clash against Afghanistan in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, former England opener Nick Knight has expressed his concerns about the team’s batting strategy, particularly regarding skipper Jos Buttler’s position in the order. Knight believes that England is not utilizing Buttler’s full potential by having him bat at number 6.

In the team’s opening match of the tournament against Australia, Buttler scored just 23 runs from 21 balls, a knock that included one boundary and one six. His performance, though solid, didn’t showcase the full impact he could have had in a higher position in the batting lineup.

“I have really strong feelings about this. Jos Buttler, for me, is not taking enough part in the construction of an innings,” Knight said on ESPNcricinfo’s Matchday show. “He’s one of the best in the world, simple as that, let alone one of the best in the team. He’s the best player. With your best player, you want them to play as much of a role within the outcome of the innings as possible.”

Knight also noted that England made a mistake by sending Harry Brook in after the partnership between Ben Duckett and Joe Root was broken in the first match. While acknowledging Brook’s talent, Knight felt he was out of touch and suggested that Buttler should have been sent in instead to anchor the innings and make a greater impact.

“I personally would have just sent Buttler in. As soon as it ticks over to 20-25 overs, Buttler’s in next… Be flexible with your batting line-up, get your best player in,” Knight added.

The upcoming match between England and Afghanistan is a must-win for both sides, with the loser set to be eliminated from the tournament. Afghanistan’s loss to South Africa in their opening match and England’s inability to defend a large total against Australia has added pressure to this encounter. The match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will showcase a fierce contest between England’s explosive batting lineup and Afghanistan’s talented spinners, making it a thrilling, do-or-die situation for both teams.