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Ollie Pope Insisted on relentless investigation of media Australia England’s Ashes squad will not be played behind closed doors after some players were photographed riding e-scooters without helmets.
Photographers have been tracking their every move since they lost the opening Test in Perth, with paparazzi deployed outside hotels and airports and a drone deployed to keep an eye on one group as they played golf on holiday.
intrigue has followed them brisbaneWhere captain Ben Stokes, wicketkeeper jamie smith And injured bowler Mark Wood was spotted riding electric two-wheelers in the city without the mandatory safety helmet.
Queensland law allows for a fine of $166 (about £82) for anyone caught doing this, although it is a common sight.
Above all it is a reminder that they are under the microscope as never before, but Pope, who was one of the people most affected by the damaging effects of lockdown cricket during the coronavirus pandemic, says they should not act too hastily.
Asked for his thoughts on the latest batch of headlines, the Pope replied: “I guess, next time just wear a helmet. Rules are rules.”
“I mean if they want to catch us doing it then so be it but it’s important to maintain balance on a long tour like this.
“In the days after a Test you are very aware of (the focus). It was where you went when people were trying to relax and for us as cricketers and as people I think it’s important to try and be able to switch off and be yourself.
“Losing a game as we did, depresses everyone, but closing your doors and not leaving your room is an unhealthy thing, as we saw in Covid times. Whatever you are doing in your free time, even if it is just taking your mind off cricket for a day or two, I think it is really important.”