Should Ollie Pope Replace Jacob Bethell for the India Series Opener at Headingley?

New Delhi, June 18 (NationPress) Former England Test captain Sir Alastair Cook has joined the discussion regarding England's number three position, expressing his support for Ollie Pope over emerging talent Jacob Bethell ahead of the eagerly awaited five-Test series against India. Pope, who holds the title of vice-captain, showcased his capabilities by scoring an impressive 171 in the recent one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge. With the series against India approaching, Cook believes Pope's experience and recent performance should solidify his place in England's starting XI for the first Test at Headingley on June 20.

“Ollie Pope's 170 was significant for me,” Cook shared during his appearance on The Overlap and Betfair's Stick to Cricket show, alongside former captains Michael Vaughan and David “Bumble” Lloyd, along with former spinner Phil “Tuffers” Tufnell. “He and Zak Crawley faced pressure and rose to the occasion.”

The competition for the number three spot has generated substantial speculation, with Bethell also in the mix. The 21-year-old from Warwickshire has made a commendable start to his Test career, boasting an average of 52.00 from six innings, highlighted by a remarkable 92 against New Zealand in December. However, Bethell's absence from the Zimbabwe Test could be a setback, according to Cook.

“When I left New Zealand, I expected Jacob Bethell to be selected,” Cook acknowledged. “But if he didn't leave the IPL to play a Test match, for whatever reason, it’s not a punishment, but that’s just how things have worked out — regardless of whose fault it is. If he were truly eager to play, I believe he would have made himself available, ensuring his England selection. I am not concerned with the circumstances behind the scenes.”

Despite respecting Bethell’s skills, Cook expressed doubts about the young player's readiness, noting inconsistencies in his domestic performance and challenges at Warwickshire.

“Many analysts have praised Bethell’s talent, but he struggled at Warwickshire last year,” Cook noted. “He often batted lower in the order, behind players like Sam Hain and Alex Davies, who consistently were preferred.”

In contrast, Pope has established a strong Test career, having participated in 56 matches for England with a batting average of 35.49. He has notched up eight centuries and 15 half-centuries, remaining a cornerstone of England's middle order. However, Cook expressed concerns regarding Pope’s early innings vulnerabilities.

“The issue I’ve consistently pointed out about Pope is his initial 20 balls,” Cook remarked with a chuckle. “Tuffers is more likely to survive his first 20 balls.”

Looking ahead to the India series, Cook also discussed the broader context of England’s strategy for the upcoming Ashes tour this winter, suggesting that the matches could be pivotal in determining the squad for the Australian challenge.

“Will Pope feature at number three in Perth? Currently, he holds the position,” Cook said. “And we will discover if he is capable against formidable bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah.”

With both Pope and Bethell included in England's 14-man squad for the India opener, the final decision rests with head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes.