England captain Ben Stokes comments on pre-match pressure on Ollie Pope

There has been a bit of drama within the England team following Ben Stokes’ earlier statement regarding Jacob Bethell’s participation in the upcoming five-match Test series against India. The media have suggested there is an agenda against vice-captain Ollie Pope.

The Test skipper and star all-rounder had claimed that Bethell would be back in the squad, which made the media curious about where Ollie Pope would fit into the team if Bethell made it into the playing XI. However, Stokes has said that his statement was taken out of context and clarified that Pope has played his role well as a batter and vice-captain within the England side. Stokes also went on to praise Pope’s performances throughout his career, including his terrific century against Zimbabwe.

“There's always someone going to be under the spotlight. We've come into this game, and I've personally felt that it was a bit of, I don't know, not a vendetta, but I got asked a simple question about Bethell,” said Stokes. “I said put two and two together, he comes back into the squad, and then all of a sudden it turns into something that suits the agenda of the time," Stokes told BBC Test Match Special.

“He's (Pope) my vice-captain, and he's been incredible for me at No. 3 and for the team. I think he's averaging over 40 now (43.06 at No. 3), so it just suited what was being said, to be honest. Very, very pleased for him that he went out there and played the way that he did. He's an important part of this team away from his runs as well. He's a leader within the group, and I value his leadership role as vice-captain,” he further stated.

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Furthermore, Ben Stokes supported his statement by explaining how Pope has also helped improve his mindset and game. He mentioned how the 27-year-old batter comes up with great ideas and noted that some of his plans have helped Stokes get into a bit of rhythm as a bowler as well.

“He's a quality player. As I said, since he's gone up to No. 3, since I've been captain, he's performed very, very well. Him being vice-captain, he comes up with some great ideas out in the middle, especially when I'm bowling. I sort of get into a little bit of my own rhythm, take myself away from that, so it's great having someone like Popey out there who can help me along in those moments,” Stokes concluded.