England batter Ollie Pope is rallying his fellow Surrey teammates to ensure that their departing director of cricket, Alec Stewart, concludes his tenure at The Oval with a flourish, adding more 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 would be stepping down at the end of the 2024 season, marking over a decade of leadership with the club.
Under his stewardship, Surrey claimed three County Championship titles and nurtured the careers of numerous England internationals, including Pope himself.
The decision to depart stems from Stewart's desire to prioritise time with his wife, who is battling cancer, a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices made in the relentless pursuit of success.
Reflecting on Stewart's dedication, Pope expressed his admiration, highlighting Stewart's habitual presence at the club, often seen hitting the gym or engaging in fitness routines as early as 6:00 am.
Pope emphasised Stewart's exceptional professionalism, noting his ability to balance personal rapport with the responsibilities of his role, be it negotiating contracts or delivering difficult news.
For Pope, Stewart's impact transcends professional realms, with cherished memories of pivotal moments shared between mentor and mentee. From receiving the Surrey under-eight player-of-the-year award to donning the England cap, Pope's journey is intertwined with Stewart's guidance, each milestone a testament to their enduring bond.
As Stewart prepares to bid farewell, Pope hopes to honor his legacy by clinching victory on the field, aspiring to add a couple more trophies to Surrey's collection, providing Stewart with a fitting send-off.
Ben Foakes, Surrey's wicketkeeper, echoed Pope's sentiments, acknowledging Stewart's unparalleled contributions to English cricket post-retirement, underscoring the immense void his departure will leave.
With the Championship title defense looming, Surrey stands poised to commence their campaign, carrying the weight of Stewart's legacy as both inspiration and responsibility, as they embark on a journey to uphold the standards he has set.
