NZ vs ENG | Got a big job at number 3 to keep doing: Ollie Pope
Pope is touted as England's future skipper [Twitter]
After conquering Pakistan in their own backyard, England have made their way over to New Zealand to challenge the Kiwis in a two-Test series starting February 16.
In the absence of Jonny Bairstow, Ollie Pope has risen to the batting ranks and has made a mark in the 'BazBall' era. Pope, touted as England's future captain, has brushed aside such talks and talked about being focused on making the Number 3 position his own.
Batting at No.2 in 2022 alone, Pope scored 690 runs in 10 Tests, which included two centuries and five fifties. In his last Test series in Pakistan, the 25-year-old amassed 238 runs in three outings.
As per ESPNcricinfo, the Chelsea-born revealed that with time he can cope-up with international cricket much better than before.
Here's what Pope said
"I don't necessarily see that. I'm going to keep developing my cricket brain. If that opportunity came up in the future I'll make sure I can learn as much as possible before then.
But at the same time, I realise I've got a big job at number three to keep doing. If I can keep impressing there who knows what the future holds,"
Overall, in 33 Tests for the Three Lions, Pope has amassed 1,726 runs with three centuries and 11 half-centuries.
Interestingly, pacer Stuart Broad has backed Pope as future England leader.
 "Vishal Mehra")
