Overview

• Brendon McCullum signaled that Ollie Pope’s role as vice-captain is under review, with Harry Brook flagged as a leading alternative.
• Ben Stokes has returned to training after a shoulder issue, though his availability for the Ashes remains uncertain.
• McCullum said selection should be straightforward, citing a settled batting group, a deep pool of quicks, and Shoaib Bashir as first-choice spinner.
• Ollie Pope will serve as back-up wicketkeeper to Jamie Smith, with no specialist reserve keeper named for the tour.
• An understrength white-ball squad heads to Ireland for three T20s, with 21-year-old Jacob Bethell set to captain after the South Africa series ended 1-1 due to a washed-out decider.