Ollie Pope said he is ready to captain England against India if Ben Stokes’ knee prevents him from playing in the first Test, starting on January 25 in Hyderabad. Stokes underwent surgery on his left knee after the World Cup and is hoping to be fit for the match. Pope, who is vice-captain, said it would be “silly” of him not to prepare for the possibility of leading the team. He has been a non-playing member of the ODI squad due to a dislocated shoulder he suffered in the Ashes. Pope said that despite the injury, he is back to full fitness and is confident in his ability to perform. He has also joined the white-ball squad in the Caribbean after a red-ball training camp in Abu Dhabi in preparation for the India tour. Pope is looking forward to the tour and said he feels well-suited to 50-over cricket and is eager to show his potential.
