GOT IT NAILED

Pope backs DIY vision

WHEN England’s batsmen struggled in Australia last winter they were accused of drowning in too much advice from too many coaches.

But after finding their feet against Sri Lanka and India, Joe Root’s side now seem to be working things out for themselves.

And England’s free-thinking top order appear to be finding answers at every turn – with a run of seven wins in their past eight Tests.

If they carry on that form in the West Indies in the new year, Root’s men would head into next summer’s Ashes as big favourites – despite their thrashing less than a year ago.

Among those benefiting from this new DIY approach is Ollie Pope, who became one of England’s youngest Test debutants – aged 20 – when he was handed his first cap against India at Lord’s in August.

He then got the nod for the tour of Sri Lanka before leaving early to join the Lions in the UAE.

It has been a lightning progression for a player who still has just 33 first-class innings under his belt.

But the character he has shown suggests he is the perfect fit for a side that is now being moulded in the image of captain Root.

Pope said: “Joe is quite big on that as a batsman, almost just coaching himself. Watching things back and working out the method for each specific bowler and adjusting small things in his technique on his own.

“I think everyone went about their business in Sri Lanka – they did it in a way that suited them.

“You saw that with Ben Foakes. When he scored his hundred he barely hit a ball over the top.

“But you saw other players like Sam Curran whacking sixes over the top for fun. Everyone was