England batter Ollie Pope asserted that they will not change their approach in the ongoing test series against India ahead of the fourth Test at JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. They lost the third test match at Rajkot by 434 runs, and are 2-1 behind in the five-match series.
Following the loss in Rajkot, several questions were raised over England’s Bazball approach. Former cricketers questioned their receptiveness towards criticism of the approach. Speaking to the press, Ollie Pople expressed that England’s approach would remain the same. He added that even though the hosts will miss Jasprit Bumrah’s services they do have other bowlers who could trouble them with the ball.
“He is going to be a miss for them but it doesn’t change the way we go about. Mohammed Siraj bowled well in the last game too, picking four wickets. We are not going to change how we play. There would still be a reverse swing and there are still other guys,” said Ollie Pope.
Videos of Ben Stokes bowling in the practice session have been doing the rounds on social media. However, Ollie Pope expressed that there is no confirmation whether the all-rounder will resume bowling in the upcoming match. He said,
“There’s definitely a chance but Ben Stokes hasn’t confirmed that he will bowl. Depends on how he pulls up tomorrow.”
The vibe in the group is very good: Ollie Pope
Ollie Pope expressed that the vibe in the England dressing room is good despite the crushing defeat in the Rajkot test match. He expressed disappointment over their performance, however, added that they are raring to go in the third Test. Ollie Pope said,
“It was disappointing how we played on the last two days in Rajkot but we have left it there. The vibe in the group is very good. Guys are fresh and ready to go again. We left the ground frustrated. Disappointing in the way we didn’t execute our plans. Nothing wrong with the way. In India, it’s about fine margins.”
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