Ben Stokes says Jacob Bethell comments were ‘twisted to suit agenda’

While neither the question nor Stokes’ answer on Wednesday specifically mentioned the England squad or playing XI, the 33-year-old believes his comments about Somerset batter Rew, who was unused member of the squad for the Test against Zimbabwe, made it clear he was referring to Bethell’s place in the squad, rather than the XI.

Speaking after a three-day victory over Zimbabwe was completed, Stokes told Test Match Special: “I personally felt that it was a bit of a, not a vendetta, but I got asked a simple question about Bethell, said put two and two together he comes back into the squad, and then all of a sudden it turns into something that suits the agenda of the time.”

While Pope may have been most vulnerable to Bethell, opener Zak Crawley would have been another candidate to make way and also made a hundred at Trent Bridge. Bethell’s left-arm spin could have also potentially pressurised off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who took nine wickets in the match.

On Thursday, after his innings, Crawley said he had not felt pressure on his place, then on Friday morning Pope said he had “learned to live with the noise”.

Pope also said he had not seen Stokes’ pre-match comments, but the captain said on Saturday he discussed them with Pope the night before the Test.

Stokes added: “He is a very important player in this team, not only with his runs at number three, because he has been exceptional since he has been given that opportunity, averaging over 40 now and he is my vice-captain.

“I value his input especially when we are out there in the middle. Not only are his runs great but his leadership has gone from strength to strength.”