England add Ollie Pope to their Test squad for the series against India

The Test series between India and England on Indian soil is one of the most awaited contests of the year. And, the two sides will lock horns in a four-match duel in the months of February and March. The first Test will begin on February 5 at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai. Both the teams have started training after completing their respective quarantine periods.

And now flamboyant batsman Ollie Pope has been added to England’s Test squad for the series against India. Pope last played a Test in August 2020 for his side against Pakistan at the Rose Bowl, where he sustained a dislocated shoulder during the third Test.

Now, it has been confirmed that the England medical staff is happy with Pope’s recovery and the Surrey cricketer will be available for selection for the Tests against the Indian side. Pope even practiced with the squad in Chennai.

So much at stake in the four-match Test series between India and England

Now, there is so much at stake when the two sides clash in the four-match rubber in India. The World Test Championship is nearing its end, and both sides still have a chance to make it to the final at Lord’s in June 2021. With New Zealand having already confirmed their place in the final, either India, England, or even Australia can play the summit clash against Kane Williamson and his men.

If India win the series by a margin of 2-1, or 2-0, or any margin better than that, they will automatically qualify for the final. For England, they will have to win a minimum of 3 Test matches in the series if they have to travel to Lord’s to play the final against the Kiwis.

If neither India nor England achieve the scoreline that is needed for their qualification, then Australia will book their ticket to the final. India will be bolstered by the return of their skipper and batting legend Virat Kohli. With both India and England entering the series brimming with confidence after having beaten Australia and Sri Lanka respectively, we are all set for a cracker of a Test series. Meanwhile, the return of Pope will definitely bolster the England batting line up.