1st Test: Ollie Pope's impressive 77 bolsters England against NZ
England's vice-captain Ollie Pope produced a stunning performance on Day 2 of the ongoing 1st Test against New Zealand in Christchurch. Although his partner Harry Brook was dropped thrice, it was Pope who fell first after a stunning one-handed catch by Glenn Phillips. Before this dismissal, Pope had not given any chances and remained calm throughout his innings of 77 runs. Pope and Brook added 151 runs after England were down to 71/4 in response to NZ's 348.
Pope's rescuing knock; 3,000 runs
Pope joined forces with Brook after England were reeling at 71/4. Zak Crawley and Joe Root departed without scoring for the visitors. Pope and Brook then steadied the ship, as England crossed the 220-run mark by the 54th over. Southee dismissed Pope, who smashed 77 off 98 balls, a knock laced with 8 fours. With this hand, Pope raced past 3,000 runs in Test cricket. It was his 14th half-century in the format.
Performance under scrutiny amid inconsistent year
Pope's show this year has been a hit and miss. He has scored three centuries, including a brilliant one in Hyderabad, but only crossed 40 on six occasions in 26 innings. His struggles were highlighted during England's tour of Pakistan where he scored only 55 runs in five innings. These inconsistencies have raised doubts over his fitment at the all-important number three spot in upcoming series against India and Australia.
Pope's position in England squad faces potential challenges
Despite his inconsistent performance, England's selectors have placed faith in Pope for this tour. However, the dynamics changed when Jordan Cox, the backup wicket-keeper, injured his thumb during training in Queenstown. This saw Pope being handed the gloves and moved down to number six in the batting order. Jacob Bethell was handed a debut at three, while Ollie Robinson was brought in as additional competition.
Pope expresses desire to retain his position in England squad
Despite the changes, Pope has said he wants to keep his usual position. "I want to be England's number three. I want to keep making it my own," he said after the day's play. He admitted having too many low scores at that position but also some good ones. He said his skill set is still developing and it's definitely a job he wants to keep doing."
