Ollie Pope Turns to Joe Root for Captaincy Wisdom as England Prepares for Second Test
Ollie Pope is turning to Joe Root for advice on managing the dual batting responsibilities and captaincy following a challenging debut as England’s stand-in skipper against Sri Lanka. Pope stepped up as captain in place of the injured Ben Stokes and led England to a five-wicket victory at Old Trafford, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. However, Pope struggled with the bat, falling twice for six runs, including an ill-timed reverse sweep.
With Stokes sidelined, Pope, who usually bats at No. 3, has sought guidance from Root, the former England captain who led the team through 64 Tests from 2017 to 2022. Root, a seasoned player who scored 14 centuries while captaining a frequently underperforming squad, is a valuable resource for Pope.
Pope spoke about his experience and efforts to balance his new role before the second Test at Lord’s starting Thursday. “I enjoyed the week,” Pope said at a press conference. “Even though I didn’t score many runs, I hope to separate my captaincy from my batting and focus on each role when needed.”
Pope revealed he’s been discussing strategies with Root to manage the added pressures of leading the team while performing with the bat. “It’s about compartmentalizing my roles,” Pope explained. “Joe Root has a brilliant cricket mind and is England’s best batter, so we’ve shared some ideas.”
Root’s captaincy style differed from the aggressive approach seen under Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum. During the first Test, Root demonstrated that there’s more than one way to win, scoring a crucial unbeaten 62 to guide England’s successful chase.
Pope acknowledged the team’s evolving style but emphasized flexibility’s importance. “We don’t use the term ‘Bazball,’ but we played a different style at Old Trafford,” he said. “Being ruthless when needed is crucial for winning games.”
Stokes is recovering from a hamstring injury, but Pope remains optimistic about his return. Stokes has been practicing in the nets but is expected to be ready for Pakistan and New Zealand tours later this year. Pope views the injury as an opportunity for players like him to step up and improve their game.
“We know injuries are tough, but they also give players a chance to reflect and enhance their skills,” Pope said. “Ben will be fresh and ready for the upcoming series.”
With only one change in the England squad for the second Test—Olly Stone replacing the injured Mark Wood—Pope and the team, united in their goal, are set for another exciting match at Lord’s.