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There’s a lot of buzz ahead of the first Ashes Test slated to be played in Perth from November 21.
Ollie Pope (left) has shown form ahead of Ashes opener. (AFP Photo)
England batter Ollie Pope, after scoring 150 in a warm-up game ahead of the Ashes, expressed hope that he has ended speculation about his position in the team and is now focused on his performance.
Pope scored 100 and 90 in the first and second innings, respectively, in the only warm-up game before the first Ashes Test against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth.
When asked if he had settled the debate about his place, Pope responded, “I hope so. I’ve grown accustomed to these conversations about the No.3 position. I don’t seek them out, but they are hard to ignore. I’ve learned to focus on my game,” Pope told ESPNcricinfo.
“I strive to become a better player each time I step out. Getting the nod is out of my hands, but I trust and respect the decision-makers,” he added.
Acknowledging the excitement surrounding the Ashes, Pope remarked, “Everyone is excited, but we need to focus on what has made us strong.”
“There is a lot of media chatter about the Ashes everywhere you look, and we should enjoy the experience. However, we must remember the factors that have made us a successful side over the past few years. If I get the nod on Friday, it will be an amazing series to be part of,” he concluded.
Pope averaged 11.16 across six innings during England’s 4-0 defeat in the previous Ashes series in 2021/22, scoring just 67 runs in total with a top score of 35.
The upcoming Ashes series between Australia and England for the 2025-26 season is set to begin on November 21, with the first Test at Optus Stadium in Perth.
This Ashes series will be a critical test for England, driven by their aggressive ‘Bazball’ style of cricket. England has struggled to win a Test in Australia since their famous victory in 2010/11 and last secured the Ashes urn on home soil in 2015.
With ANI Inputs
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital…Read More
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital… Read More
November 17, 2025, 07:57 IST
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