England Hang On After Pope’s Masterful Century in Hyderabad
Ollie Pope’s magnificent 148 not out has kept England’s hopes alive in the first Test against India after three enthralling days in Hyderabad. The tourists now hold a slender 126-run lead heading into the final two days, defying expectations following Jasprit Bumrah’s stunning reverse-swing spell earlier in the day.
Pope’s innings, his best for England, was a masterpiece of grit and resilience. He navigated a tricky start, weathered Bumrah’s onslaught, and anchored partnerships that steered England away from the brink of defeat.
Ben Foakes provided crucial support with a determined 34, adding 108 for the sixth wicket before Axar Patel ended his resistance. Rehan Ahmed remains unbeaten on 16 at the close.
England’s fightback came after India, resuming on 421/7, managed only 15 runs in the morning session before being bowled out for 436. Joe Root claimed two wickets in two balls to finish with 4-79, but the hosts’ late collapse offered little comfort with a significant first-innings lead of 190.
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The key to England’s hopes may lie in the fitness of Jack Leach, whose left leg injury limited him to just one over. His absence significantly weakens England’s spin attack, making the task of defending any substantial target on this increasingly placid pitch daunting.
However, the top order provided vital contributions, offering encouraging signs in their battle against spin in Asia. Ben Duckett defied Ravichandran Ashwin for the first time in his Test career, reaching 47, while Zak Crawley played an attractive 31.
Yet, it was Pope’s brilliant innings which stole the show. His hundred, crafted under immense pressure, recalled Alastair Cook’s valiant effort in the opening Test of England’s 2012 tour, a knock that ultimately paved the way for a series victory.
While chasing down a sizeable target remains a monumental task, England have defied expectations to remain in the contest. Pope’s heroics have given them a fighting chance, and Sunday promises another enthralling chapter in this captivating Test match.
