Ashes 2025-26 [WATCH]: Mark Waugh delivers a brutal sledge to Ollie Pope just before Mitchell Starc dismisses the England batter on Day 1 of the Gabba pink-ball Test

Legendary Australian batter Mark Waugh ignited a commentary box controversy on Day 1 of the Second Ashes Test in Brisbane by publicly casting doubt on England’s No. 3, Ollie Pope, referring to him dismissively as “just a player.” Waugh’s criticism proved instantly prophetic, as Pope was dismissed by Mitchell Starc the very next ball, reinforcing the Australian’s contentious stance that Pope is a ‘weakness’ in the English line-up against quality bowling.

Ashes 2025-26: Mark Waugh questions Ollie Pope’s value and technical flaws

Waugh’s controversial assessment of Pope was driven by the batter’s recent inconsistent form and perceived technical deficiencies at the crucial number three position. Waugh explained his stance while on commentary, stating there was “a bit of a question mark over his spot in the team,” especially with other young players like Jacob Bethell being discussed as alternatives. Despite a fellow commentator citing Pope’s recent Test average of 42 over a 12-month period, Waugh refused to back down, insisting: “I think he’s just another player. I think he is their weakness at No. 3. Not saying he is a bad player, but I think at this level, against good bowling, he’s got a little bit to prove.”

Immediately after this remark, fast bowler Mitchell Starc delivered a ball that cleaned up Pope for a duck, proving Waugh right in spectacular fashion. The former Australian batsman quipped: “Do I need to say anymore,” a sentiment echoed by commentator Brad Haddin, who added: “Well, you’re right, Mark. He hasn’t learned from the first Test match. He could have left that ball; played away from his body. Big inside edge.” The dismissal highlights Pope’s recurring issues against the moving ball, having been dismissed for a duck alongside Ben Duckett by Starc as England slumped to 5/0 early in the innings.

Here’s the video:

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Ashes 2025-26: Pope under scrutiny despite recent form

Ollie Pope’s vulnerability at the start of the series has placed him firmly under the scanner, despite having shown flashes of brilliant form earlier in the year. He scored back-to-back centuries in May-June against Zimbabwe and India, followed by twin fifties for Surrey and warm-up scores of 100 and 90 for the England Lions. However, his failure to convert starts in the first Ashes Test in Perth (scores of 46 and 33) and his duck in Brisbane has amplified the criticism of his technical flaws, which are now being exploited by the Australian pace attack.

Compounding his struggles is the pressure from the English setup, where he was recently removed as vice-captain and replaced by Harry Brook, suggesting a wavering confidence in his leadership position. Waugh’s strong words and Starc’s subsequent delivery perfectly captured the doubts surrounding Pope’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level, particularly against the swinging pink ball and the aggressive Australian attack.  Pope’s early failure has intensified the debate over his long-term suitability for the crucial No. 3 position, especially with young talents like Bethell breathing down his neck.

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