As England gears up for a highly anticipated five-match Test series against India, starting June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds, head coach Brendon McCullum has sparked intrigue with his comments on the selection dilemma between rising star Jacob Bethell and vice-captain Ollie Pope for the crucial number three batting position. This decision is pivotal for England’s campaign in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, as they face a transitioning Indian side led by Shubman Gill. McCullum’s remarks, combined with recent performances and strategic considerations, have set the stage for a fascinating narrative heading into this marquee series.
The Emergence of Jacob Bethell
Jacob Bethell, a 21-year-old all-rounder from Warwickshire, has rapidly risen through the ranks to become one of England’s most promising talents. His inclusion in the Test squad for the India series follows a standout debut series in New Zealand late last year, where he notched three half-centuries batting at number three, averaging an impressive 52 in his first three Tests. His performances showcased a blend of poise, aggression, and adaptability, earning high praise from McCullum, who described him as a player with “real poise” and a “good life in front of him.”
Bethell’s case is further strengthened by his exploits in white-ball cricket. During England’s tour of the West Indies, he delivered a devastating 82 off 53 balls in an ODI, alongside quickfire cameos of 23*, 26, and 36* in T20Is. His bowling contributions—two wickets in ODIs and four in T20Is—have solidified his reputation as a versatile all-rounder. McCullum has highlighted Bethell’s emerging leadership qualities, noting that he is “already becoming a dressing room leader” despite his young age.
Bethell’s recent stint with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) kept him out of England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe in May 2025. However, his return to the Test squad has reignited discussions about his role, particularly at the number three spot, where he made a compelling case in New Zealand. His left-handed batting and left-arm spin add balance to the side, making him a strong contender to displace established players.
Ollie Pope’s Rollercoaster Journey
Ollie Pope, England’s vice-captain and incumbent number three, has been a mainstay in the Test side since Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took charge in 2022. With an average of 43 at the number three position, Pope has delivered moments of brilliance, including a sublime 196 in Hyderabad during England’s last Test series against India in 2024. However, his 2024 campaign was inconsistent, with an average of 33.13 despite three centuries, the lowest for any Test batter achieving that feat in a calendar year.
Pope’s recent performance against Zimbabwe, where he scored a breezy 171, has bolstered his case for retention. This innings came at a critical juncture, as speculation about Bethell’s return intensified. England captain Ben Stokes, addressing earlier comments that suggested Bethell’s immediate return to the XI, clarified that his remarks were “twisted to suit an agenda” and emphasized Pope’s value to the team. Pope himself has expressed resilience, stating he has “learned to live with the noise” surrounding his place in the side.
Despite his contributions, Pope faces pressure due to Bethell’s meteoric rise and the team’s willingness to invest in youth. McCullum and Stokes have a history of making bold selection calls, as evidenced by the exclusion of veterans like James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, and Jack Leach in favor of younger talents like Shoaib Bashir and Jamie Smith. Pope’s versatility, demonstrated by his willingness to take up wicketkeeping duties in New Zealand to accommodate Bethell, adds complexity to the selection debate.
McCullum’s Strategic Considerations
Brendon McCullum’s approach to the India series reflects his broader vision for England’s Test team, which has been transformed under his and Stokes’ leadership. The “Bazball” philosophy—characterized by an ultra-aggressive, fearless style of play—has redefined England’s Test cricket, yielding 10 wins in their first 11 Tests under the duo. McCullum’s recent comments emphasize a desire to balance this aggression with humility, aiming to reconnect with fans as England embarks on a defining period that includes the India series and the Ashes in Australia.
On the Bethell-Pope dilemma, McCullum has remained measured, indicating that England will delay the decision on the number three spot until the squad gathers in Leeds next week. He praised Bethell’s potential, stating, “The world is his oyster,” while acknowledging Pope’s contributions, particularly his adaptability in New Zealand. McCullum’s reluctance to commit to a final XI suggests a strategic approach, factoring in pitch conditions, opposition bowling, and team balance.
The inclusion of Bethell could provide England with additional bowling options, as his left-arm spin complements off-spinner Shoaib Bashir. This flexibility is crucial against a youthful Indian batting lineup featuring Sai Sudharsan and Yashasvi Jaiswal, led by Shubman Gill in the absence of retired stalwarts Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R Ashwin. Conversely, Pope’s experience and familiarity with the number three role offer stability, particularly against India’s potent pace attack.
The Broader Context: England vs. India
The upcoming series marks the beginning of England’s 2025-27 WTC campaign, with India presenting a formidable challenge despite their transition phase. McCullum has acknowledged India as an “outstanding cricketing nation” that will arrive “well-prepared and full of confidence.” The series, starting at Headingley and moving to venues like Edgbaston and Lord’s, will test England’s depth and adaptability against a side known for its resilience on foreign soil.
England’s squad for the first Test includes returning players like Jamie Overton, Chris Woakes, and Brydon Carse, alongside stalwarts Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Ben Duckett. The absence of Gus Atkinson due to a hamstring injury has prompted Overton’s recall, adding depth to the pace bowling unit. McCullum has expressed confidence in his bowling lineup, highlighting the variety offered by Bashir, Woakes, and emerging talents like Sam Cook and Josh Tongue.
India, under new leadership, will rely on young talents to fill the void left by their retired veterans. The series promises a clash of contrasting styles—England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach versus India’s blend of youthful exuberance and disciplined bowling. McCullum’s excitement about “fighting fire with fire” underscores the anticipation surrounding this contest.
The Selection Dilemma: Bethell or Pope?
The decision between Bethell and Pope hinges on several factors. Bethell’s recent form, versatility, and alignment with England’s youth-centric approach make him a compelling choice. His ability to contribute with bat and ball aligns with McCullum’s vision of a dynamic, multi-dimensional team. However, dropping Pope, the vice-captain who has delivered match-defining performances, would be a bold call, potentially unsettling the team’s hierarchy.
Pope’s experience at number three, coupled with his recent century, provides a strong case for retention. His ability to anchor the innings against India’s pace-heavy attack, led by bowlers like Nitish Kumar, could be invaluable on lively English pitches. Yet, Bethell’s left-handedness and spin-bowling utility offer tactical advantages, particularly against India’s predominantly right-handed batting order.
England selector Luke Wright emphasized that the final call would consider “conditions, what has gone before,” indicating a pragmatic approach. The synergy of the opening partnership between Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, described as complementary due to their contrasting styles, also factors into the equation. Replacing Pope with Bethell could disrupt this balance, as Bethell and Duckett, both left-handers, might present a “samey” dynamic.
Final Verdict
As England prepares to face India, Brendon McCullum’s comments on Jacob Bethell and Ollie Pope underscore the team’s depth and the challenges of selection in a competitive squad. Bethell’s emergence as a multi-format star and dressing room leader at just 21 highlights England’s investment in youth, while Pope’s resilience and experience embody the team’s continuity. The decision, to be finalized in Leeds, will shape England’s strategy for the series and potentially define their WTC campaign.
McCullum’s leadership, marked by bold decisions and a transformative approach, will be under scrutiny as England navigates this selection headache. Whether they opt for Bethell’s flair or Pope’s stability, the series promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams poised to showcase their evolving identities on the Test stage.
