Pope can still be a Key figure

ENGLAND chief Rob Key denies there is “an elaborate scheme” to oust Ollie Pope in favour of Jacob Bethell for the Ashes.

- BY RORY DOLLARD

Pope's grip on the No.3 shirt has been under scrutiny and, although he held the spot for all six Tests this summer, there are no guarantees that he will remain in place against Australia.

Bethell, 21, will get his chance to stake a claim during next month's white-ball tour of New Zealand.