Lord's pitch does not benefit Test format - Stokes
BBC Sport·June 7, 2026

Ben Stokes, England's captain, has expressed concerns that the Lord's pitch used in the first Test against New Zealand does not support the future of Test cricket. He believes the pitch does not provide the necessary conditions for an engaging and competitive game. Stokes' comments come after England won the first Test, and he is advocating for pitches that promote a more balanced contest between bat and ball. His remarks highlight the need for pitches that sustain interest in the longest format of the game.
✦ AI-generated summary


