No, the 12th man, who is a substitute player in cricket, cannot bat.
According to the BBC Sport reference provided, a substitute is only allowed on the field to replace an injured player. Importantly, the substitute:
- Cannot bat.
- Cannot bowl.
- Cannot wicket-keep.
- Cannot act as captain.
The role of the 12th man is typically filled by the best fielder outside the Test side or another suitable replacement, providing fielding cover when a player is injured.
