Stokes Defends Archer's Test Absence

Stokes addressed criticism surrounding Archer's absence, stating that a more militant approach risks losing players of his caliber to England. 'Players like him might not play for England again' if handled differently, according to the England captain. esporist.com

Former New Zealand bowler Simon Doull described Archer's absence as 'absolutely ludicrous' and 'completely wrong', while former England batter Mark Butcher called it 'absolutely ridiculous'. Former England captain Michael Atherton also expressed his frustration, labeling the situation 'incredibly frustrating'.