England’s Ollie Pope finds himself at the centre of attention once again, but this time for all the right reasons. After an impressive display in the only warm-up match ahead of the 2025 Ashes series, Pope scored a brilliant 150 across two innings (100 and 90), sending a strong message to selectors and critics alike.
With the opening Test scheduled at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 21, the 26-year-old hopes to have put to rest the ongoing debate about his role at No. 3. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Ollie Pope acknowledged the recurring scrutiny around his batting slot.
“I hope so. I’ve grown accustomed to these conversations about the No.3 position. I don’t seek them out, but they are hard to ignore. I’ve learned to focus on my game,” he said. Pope emphasized that while selection isn’t in his control, his focus remains on improving continuously.
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“I strive to become a better player each time I step out. Getting the nod is out of my hands, but I trust and respect the decision-makers,” he added.
I’m getting Alastair Cook vibes about Ollie Pope and this Ashes series https://t.co/aBzZVUUkoy
— The i Paper (@theipaper) November 17, 2025
With the Ashes grabbing headlines across the cricketing world, Pope highlighted the importance of staying grounded despite the hype. “Everyone is excited, but we need to focus on what has made us strong. There’s a lot of media chatter about the Ashes everywhere you look, and we should enjoy the experience. However, we must remember the factors that have made us a successful side over the past few years,” he said.
This Ashes series represents a significant challenge for England. Pope himself struggled during the previous Ashes tour, averaging just 11.16 in 2021-22.
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As England prepares to unleash their aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, Pope’s resurgence could play a pivotal role in their bid for an elusive Test win in Australia—a feat they haven’t achieved since 2010/11. If Pope gets the call on Friday, there’s little doubt: he’ll be ready to make this Ashes series one to remember.
