Xtra Time Web Desk: England middle order batsman Ollie Pope is doubtful for the first test against India starting next month at Trentbridge from July 4. Pope picked up an injury while playing for Surrey against Kent during the Vitality Blast T20 cricket on July 2.
According to a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), “Pope has been ruled out until England’s LV= Insurance Test Series against India after suffering a left thigh muscle injury. The ECB and Surrey fitness teams will work together to deliver Pope’s rehabilitation with a focus for him to be available to return for the first Test against India.”
Pope’s injury might open an opportunity for Dawid Malan owing to his sublime form with the bat. Besides, Dan Lawrence is yet another player on the radar who could feature for the test squad.
India and England will face each other in a five-match Test series starting from August 4. The first test will be played at the Trentbridge cricket ground in Nottingham.