ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: Why is Ollie Pope Not Playing England vs Australia 4th Test? Check England Playing XI

Unfortunately, England will be playing the fourth Test match of the Ashes 2023 against Australia without their premier batsman Ollie Pope as he is recovering from a shoulder injury. The England vs Australia Ashes 2023 4th Test match will be played at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester from 19 July, 2023. England made a brilliant fightback at the Headingley to pick up an impressive 3-wicket victory over Australia in the third Test to keep themselves alive in the five-match Test series that stands with a current scoreline of 1-2 in Australia’s favour.

ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: Why is Ollie Pope Not Playing England vs Australia 4th Test?

England will be missing their premier batsman and vice-captain Ollie Pope from the playing 11 in the ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 4th Test match. During the second Test match against Australia, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) disclosed that Ollie Pope suffered a dislocated shoulder, necessitating surgical intervention. The injury occurred while fielding on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test when he made a diving stop and immediately clutched his shoulder in pain. Despite the discomfort, Pope displayed his determination by batting in both innings. Notably, he managed to score 42 runs in the first innings of the second Test and had previously showcased his brilliance with a remarkable double hundred against Ireland. However, his discomfort was evident during the fielding in the second innings.

Hosts England brought back their off-spinner Moeen Ali and he also batted at the vacant No.3 spot in the second innings. Despite an ordinary outing, Moeen will continue batting at No.3 position in the fourth Test match against Australia as well.

England Playing XI

1. Ben Duckett
2. Zak Crawley
3. Harry Brook
4. Joe Root
5. Ben Stokes (C)
6. Jonny Bairstow (wk)
7. Moeen Ali
8. Chris Woakes
9. Stuart Broad
10. Mark Wood
11. James Anderson

England squad for Fourth Test of Ashes 2023

Ben Stokes (c), James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Moeen Ali.