Ollie Pope undeserving? Nasser Hussain, Michael Atherton share blunt views on England Test captain for SL series

Former England captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton shared their views on Ollie Pope's appointment as captain for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Nasser Hussain said that this captaincy stint will be beneficial for Ollie Pope, especially as a backup for regular skipper Ben Stokes.

Ben Stokes was ruled out of the Test series against Sri Lanka due to a hamstring tear sustained during The Hundred 2024. Stokes will be out of action for the entire English summer. Ollie Pope will lead the England cricket team for the first time. The series is set to begin in Manchester on August 21.

Stokes has not missed a Test match since becoming England's full-time Test captain in 2022. The 33-year-old all-rounder played with a knee injury for most of 2023 and underwent surgery the following year. He last missed a Test series during India’s tour of England in 2021 due to mental health issues.

It's Good For Ollie Pope To Be Captain For Three Tests - Nasser Hussain

Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, Nasser Hussain backed Ollie Pope's appointment as captain for the upcoming Test series. Hussain highlighted that Pope needs experience to avoid being unprepared for major tours like the Ashes.

“I think it’s good for Pope to be captain for three Tests, just in case, Ben Stokes does get injured in the future,” Hussain said.

“They need other options. Just like when they go to Australia, and they don’t want a bowling attack that’s inexperienced. You don’t want to get there with someone [leading] who hasn’t done it before,” he added.

England started their summer with a 3-0 Test series victory over the West Indies. Pope amassed 239 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 59.75. He was the second-highest run-getter in the Test series. Pope will be hoping to continue his batting form in his first stint as England's red-ball captain.

Ollie Pope Wouldn't Want To Change That - Michael Atherton

Michael Atherton noted that Pope's temporary captaincy might put him in a difficult position. Atherton said that Pope could be in an awkward spot, especially since Ben Stokes has left a permanent mark on the team. He added that Pope may face challenges in maintaining the team's dynamics.

“Essentially, you’re in a caretaker position. And Ben Stokes has left such a permanent mark on the side, Ollie Pope wouldn’t want to change that. While you are captain and you make decisions, it’s someone else’s team. It’s a slightly awkward position for him,” Atherton said.

Nasser Hussain said that Pope has not yet established himself as a natural leader of the team. The 56-year-old highlighted that Ben Stokes’s leadership and cricketing intelligence come naturally. Hussain added that Pope was given the vice-captaincy to help him grow into the role.

The first Test match between England and Sri Lanka will be played at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester from August 21–25. Both teams will be hoping to start the series on a winning note to set the tone for the remaining games.

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