England batsman Ollie Pope is rallying his Surrey teammates to ensure their outgoing director of cricket Alec Stewart ends his tenure at The Oval with a bang and adds another piece of silverware to his illustrious legacy.
Stewart, a former England captain who dedicated 22 years of his playing career to Surrey, announced last week that he will step down at the end of the 2024 season, marking more than a decade in charge of the club.
Under his leadership, Surrey won three County Championship titles and nurtured the careers of many England internationals, including Pope himself.
The decision to leave stems from Stewart’s desire to prioritize time with his wife, who is battling cancer, a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices made in the relentless pursuit of success.
Pope reflected on Stewart’s dedication and expressed his admiration, highlighting Stewart’s usual presence at the club, often seen in the gym or doing fitness routines as early as 6am.
Pope highlighted Stewart’s exceptional professionalism and noted his ability to balance a personal relationship with the responsibilities of his role, whether negotiating contracts or delivering difficult messages.
For Pope, Stewart’s influence extends beyond the professional realm, with cherished memories of key moments shared between mentor and protégé. From receiving the Surrey under-eight player of the year award to donning an England cap, Pope’s journey has been intertwined with Stewart’s guidance, with each milestone a testament to their enduring bond.
As Stewart prepares to bid farewell, Pope hopes to honor his legacy by securing victory on the field and is keen to add a few more trophies to Surrey’s collection, giving Stewart a fitting boost.
Surrey wicketkeeper Ben Foakes echoed Pope’s sentiments, acknowledging Stewart’s unique contributions to England cricket after his retirement and highlighting the immense void his departure will leave.
With their Championship title defense looming, Surrey are ready to kick off their campaign and carry the weight of Stewart’s legacy as both an inspiration and a responsibility as they set out to live up to the standards he set.
