After dislocating his shoulder during the second Test at Lord’s, England batter Injured Ollie Pope was forced to withdraw from the rest of the 2023 Ashes series.
Pope, who was heartbroken that he couldn’t continue playing in the Ashes, has been one of the core hitters in the Bazball philosophy.
Pope anticipated that his initial injury wouldn’t have a significant impact on his ability to participate in the remaining Test matches. He did, however, share how he had to come to terms with the idea that it was a serious injury over time.
Pope spoke to the Telegraph about his feelings at not being selected for the Ashes team for the final Tests.
At Jonny [Bairstow’s] annual BBQ, I was told that I would not be appearing in the series, and I left feeling disappointed. It hit me for the first time as I was driving away. It’s been such a wonderful year, and I’m going just when we are enjoying our time together the most—sitting down to watch the third Test at Headingley. It was difficult to desire to influence someone but be powerless to do so. The concern was at an all-time high.
Added him:
After the game was over, it really hit me. I was very anxious while I watched it, but when the lads had taken it home, a wave of emotions overcame me. You are undergoing surgery and four months of recovery while they are in a fantastic series that you have always wanted to be a part of. That is extremely depressing, especially given that you know the worse days of the rehab are still to come.
Being hurt during a major series is the worst: Injured Ollie Pope
Ollie Pope also discussed his state of mind following the injury and how he started to question.
If postponing the surgery would guarantee that he would play the rest of the series.
In response, he said:
“Nothing is worse than being in a crucial series when an injury occurs. I’m crushed. I was good there at Lord’s. After getting a scan, I thought about the next steps and headed up to Headingley hoping for the best. Can I postpone surgery so I can finish this series? All of the reasoning is cold and emotionless. Then everything changes when the news is confirmed.”
Before England heads to India in January of next year for five Test matches.
Pope is hoping to at least have a taste of competitive cricket.
Added him:
“I’ve swiftly remembered once more that I need to stay occupied. I spent a few days relaxing on the couch and rapidly became irritated with everything. I don’t want to play India in my next cricket match.”
In Pope’s absence for the remaining two Ashes Tests, England is probably going to support Moeen Ali in the No. 3 position.
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