OLLIE POPE believes it’s quality as much as quantity as far as Zak Crawley is concerned – and is adamant the opener will prove himself an Ashes matchwinner.
England’s vice-captain has given his colleague a big thumbs-up ahead of a series which could prove make or break for the Kent right-hander.
After being promoted to the senior side three years ago, the batsman averages 28 and his is the one spot in Ben Stokes’ line-up that has come under the spotlight.
However, Pope – who grew up playing against Crawley (right) on the Surrey junior scene – says that his pal delivers when it matters. He said: “Zak has come into the side after Alastair Cook – what a legend of the game he was – and he averaged 40-odd.
This story is from the June 11, 2023 edition of Daily Star Sunday.
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This story is from the June 11, 2023 edition of Daily Star Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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