Ollie Pope looking to thrive under the extra pressure of The Ashes

Pope's place in the team was far from certain with Jacob Bethell making a challenge for the No 3 spot in the lineup but scores of 100 and 90 against England Lions in the lead up to the first Test in Perth earned him a spot in the team.

Pope is well aware that the uncertainty around his position in the team and his late inclusion in the lineup will result in increased scrutiny of his performance, but he is hoping that extra pressure will be something he can use to thrive on.

"I respect the decision they've made," Pope said.

"If they think that's the right thing for the team going forward, and obviously Brooky captaining the one-day stuff and the T20 stuff as well, then that's absolutely fine by me and I respect the decision they've made.

"I've got so used to those conversations being had (about the No.3 position). I don't go looking for them but it's pretty hard to avoid sometimes. I'm so used to seeing it, I've just learned to focus on my game.

"I'm just trying to become a better player each time I step out and that's all I can do. Fingers crossed to get the nod, but all the trust is in those guys and I respect the decision they make.

"It's been good for me that I've learnt that, under the most pressure, I've been able to deliver, especially in that Headingley Test. I know that I can learn how to deal with that and get the best out of myself at times.

"Everyone wants to be the first name on the team sheet, that's pretty clear. But at the same time we're playing international sport. I've got to remind myself of that at times - there's always going to be someone on your heel if you haven't quite scored the volume of runs that you would have liked.

"I'll try and use the pressure I'm under to get the best out of myself. I think I'm a far better player than I was the last time I came out to Australia. I've got those experiences behind me and I know how I want to go about it. So fingers crossed that I can deliver with a lot of runs."