POPE'S NO DOPE

Ollie ready to stand up to Stokes and stand in for him too

- DEAN WILSON

OLLIE POPE will challenge Ben Stokes with new ideas in the Ashes - but will stick to the same script if he takes the England reins.

England's new official Test vice-captain is just a broken finger, an upset stomach or a twinge of a knee away from leading the team against Australia.

And after seeing the way Stokes moved gingerly at times at Lord's in the Test win against Ireland, it hasn't escaped Pope's attention that his time to lead may arrive sooner rather than later.

But while he believes his job is to counter Stokes with different plans of attack when they are in the team together, it will be steady as Bazball goes if he ends up in charge.

"It's a big honour firstly to be vice-captain of your country, especially in Test cricket," said Pope, fresh from his double ton against the Irish. "And absolutely I'm ready if need be.