HULL NEW BALL GAME

Skipper Pope backs 6ft 7in Josh to make big impression on Test bow

- GARY FITZGERALD

OLLIE POPE is backing bowling giant Josh Hull to quickly stamp his mark on the side as England target the perfect Test summer.

The captain admits it is a "bold" decision by coach Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes to throw another rookie into the international firing line.

But Pope supported the surprise call-up of a 20-year-old with very little experience and raw pace, who has yet to make a real impact on county cricket.

Leicestershire's 6ft 7in star Hull now has the dream chance to push his name forward for winter tour selection.

A strong performance in England's bid to complete a 6-0 clean sweep in the summer Tests could put him in the picture for New Zealand and Pakistan.