Legendary Australian fruit Mark waugh caused controversy in a comment box Day 1 of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane Throwing doubt on England’s No. 3, Ollie Pope, he is denied “Just a player.” Waugh’s criticisms proved immediately prophetic as Pope was fired Mitchell Starc The very next ball, cementing Australia’s controversial position of Pope being an a ‘Weakness’ Against quality bowling in English.
2025-26 Ashes: Waugh Questions Ollie Pope’s value and technical flaws
Waugh’s controversial assessment of Pope has been driven by recent inconsistent form and technical shortcomings seen in all three positions. Waugh explained that he stood by the comments, saying there was “a bit of a question mark in the team”, especially with the other young players Jacob Bethell is discussed as an alternative. Despite a friend’s comment citing Pope’s final Test average of 42, Waugh again refused, insisting: “I think he’s a different player. I think that’s their weakness at No. 3. I’m not saying he’s a bad player, but he’s proving a bit against good bowling at this level.”
Immediately after this remark, fast bowler Mitchell Starc saved a ball that cleared the Pope for a duck for a duck alive in spectacular fashion. Former Australian Batsman – “I have to say” A sentiment echoed by the commentator Brad Haddinwho added: “Well, you’re right, mark. He didn’t learn from his first Test match. He could have left the ball; away from his body. Big inside edge.” His dismissal highlighted Pope’s recurring issues against the moving ball, with him dismissed for a duck Ben Duckett Reduced to 5/0 early in the innings by Starc as England.
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Ashes 2025-26: Pope under scrutiny despite Recent Form
Ollie Pope’s sensitivity at the start of the series has put him under the scanner despite showing flashes of brilliant form earlier in the year. In the months of May and June, the back centuries struck for centuries Zimbabwe and IndiaTwin fifties followed for Surrey and Warm-up scores of 100 and 90 for the England Lions. However, Cirula’s start, his start in the first Ashes Test in Perth (46 and 33 points) and his duck in Brisbane have fueled criticism of the technical lapses that have now been exploited by Australia’s PACE attack.
Compounding their struggles is the pressure of being recently removed as vice-captain and being replaced by Harry Brook, who has been replaced by Harry Brook, who has given him confidence in the leadership position. Waugh’s strong words and Starc’s subsequent delivery perfectly captured the doubts surrounding Pope’s ability to perform consistently at the highest level, especially against the swinging pink ball and aggressive Australian attack. Pope’s early deficit fueled the debate over his long-term compatibility, particularly with young talent like Bethell.
