Former England captain Michael Atherton has expressed his support for the decision to drop batter Ollie Pope from the playing eleven for the crucial Boxing Day Test against Australia in Melbourne. The move, announced on December 25, 2025, sees Pope replaced by Jacob Bethell, who will slot into the pivotal number three position.
Atherton's Take on the Pivotal Number Three Role
In his analysis for 'The Times', Atherton emphasised the unique significance of the first-drop batting position in Australian conditions. He stated that the No. 3 spot holds a "special status" in Australia, traditionally occupied by their finest players, unlike in England where the premier batter often comes in at number four.
Atherton observed that Pope appeared "insecure" in this vital role. The right-hander's struggles in the first three Tests of the series have been stark, with his average away from home dipping below 30. More concerning is his paltry average of just 17 against the Australian attack.
"Removing him from the firing line is the right call," Atherton wrote, endorsing the selectors' tough decision ahead of the match starting December 26.
A Painful Reminder for McCullum's 'Bazball' Era
Atherton suggested that Pope's omission could serve as a significant moment for head coach Brendon McCullum. He pointed out that promoting Pope to number three was one of the first major decisions McCullum made after taking charge of the Test side.
Therefore, dropping him now might feel like a "painful reminder" that the team's structure is under severe pressure and potentially "falling apart." This comes at a critical juncture in the Ashes series, with England needing a strong performance in Melbourne to stay alive.
The Archer Blow: A Massive Setback for England's Attack
Beyond the batting concerns, Atherton highlighted another major setback for the visitors: the absence of pace spearhead Jofra Archer for the final two Tests. He described Archer's injury as a "huge blow," noting that the fast bowler had been England's standout performer with the ball despite a relatively light workload.
While Brydon Carse leads the wicket-taking charts for England, Atherton argued that Archer has been their "best bowler by some distance." He noted the evident caution and respect shown by Australian batters towards Archer, who maintained an exceptional economy rate of 1.57 runs per over in the second innings at Adelaide.
In Archer's place, England have brought in Gus Atkinson for the fourth Test. The team will hope these changes can spark a revival as they aim to claw their way back into the prestigious series.
