Ollie Pope recalled by England for Pakistan Tests after Bethell injury

England have recalled Ollie Pope for the first two Tests against Pakistan after Jacob Bethell was ruled out with a knee injury. Pope last played a Test during the Ashes series in December and has not featured since being dropped after the third Test. The 28-year-old has played 64 Tests.

Pope revealed that England fans shouted "enjoy your last Test mate" at him during the Headingley Test against India last year when he was struggling for runs. He said the lack of support made it harder to perform and that he wants to be liked by fans like any other player.

The three-match series against Pakistan begins at Headingley on August 19. Pope said he would prefer to be in the playing XI rather than carry drinks but views his recall as a positive sign that the team still considers him.

England also recalled Dan Lawrence, Brydon Carse and Sam Cook for the series, with Joe Root captaining in the post-Stokes era.