Former England top-order batter Andrew Strauss has advocated for Ollie Pope to beat out the tough competition from Jacob Bethell to retain the number three spot against Australia in the Ashes, scheduled to commence on November 21 in Perth.

Pope, 27, has represented England in 67 Tests at an average of 35.36. However, his average increases to 41.60 when he comes out to bat at number three. The dilemma around Pope’s selection arises from his last trip down under. Pope’s shambolic tour concluded with 67 runs across his six innings.

Bethell has been identified as a long-term solution for the number three, courtesy of the form and talent he has exhibited at the age of 22. Despite his promising talent, Pope notched his first ton during an ODI against South Africa earlier this year.

“I think y

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