Pope’s Test vice-captaincy uncertain ahead of Ashes, says McCullum

London, 14 September 2025:

Ollie Pope’s role as England’s Test vice-captain is under review heading into the Ashes, head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed Sunday.

Pope, 27, has served as Ben Stokes’ deputy for nearly three years and led England five times in Stokes’ absence, including in last month’s series-deciding defeat to India at The Oval. But McCullum said no decision has been made on whether Pope will continue in the role for the Ashes, which begin Nov. 21 in Perth.

“We will work on that one as well,” McCullum said when asked about the vice-captaincy. “We will chat about that over the coming days, as we finalise our Ashes squad. You’re always looking at things. Every time you get together for a series, you discuss things.”

McCullum hinted that Harry Brook could be in line for a leadership role. “I think it’s no secret that Harry Brook is emerging as a leader within English cricket,” he said. “But whatever happens, a great team understands that just because you haven’t got a title doesn’t stop you from being a leader.”

England’s selectors are expected to name the Ashes squad in the coming week. McCullum confirmed Shoaib Bashir, who broke a finger against India, will tour as the first-choice spinner, while Pope will serve as backup wicketkeeper to Jamie Smith. England are likely to take “maybe seven” seamers, with Stokes and Mark Wood expected to be fit.

McCullum predicted the Ashes would be “a ripper” and said England’s core squad was largely settled.

“We have a very settled group of batters, a cartel of fast bowlers, and Shoaib Bashir as our frontline spinner,” he said. “We don’t need too big a squad. Our captain has the bit between his teeth and is super excited.”

One absence will be bowling coach Tim Southee, who will instead play in the ILT20. McCullum said he was in talks with replacements.

“Tim won’t be available for the Ashes,” McCullum said. “There’s a couple of guys I’m talking to. They’re good names. It would be nice to add them.”

England’s buildup continues this week with a three-match T20I series in Ireland, where Jacob Bethell will captain an understrength squad.