Pope retains wicketkeeping duties as England opt for unchanged team

WELLINGTON: England have confirmed that Ollie Pope will continue as wicketkeeper for the second Test against New Zealand in Wellington, following Jordan Cox’s injury. The visitors have decided to stick with an unchanged XI after their commanding eight-wicket victory in the series opener.

Cox, England’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the series, suffered a fractured thumb during a net session. Although replacement keeper Ollie Robinson has traveled to New Zealand, the team has placed their trust in Pope to continue behind the stumps.

Pope, primarily a middle-order batter, showcased his versatility during the first Test. He stepped into the wicketkeeping role seamlessly, claiming two catches and contributing a solid 77 runs in England’s first innings. The 26-year-old has previous experience as a stand-in keeper, having taken on the role when Ben Foakes fell ill in 2022.

England, who are eyeing their first overseas Test series win in two years, will hope to carry their momentum into the second Test, which starts on Friday at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.