Leeds [UK], June 23: England batter Ollie Pope reflected on his gritty century against India in the ongoing first Test at Leeds, calling it an innings he “really enjoyed” while acknowledging the need to keep improving as the five-match series progresses.
Pope, who came in early after England lost their first wicket at just 4 runs, anchored the innings with a composed knock of 106 off 137 balls. He shared a crucial century partnership with Ben Duckett, helping England recover and nearly match India’s first-innings total. Pope was dropped early in his innings by Yashasvi Jaiswal—an error that proved costly for India.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Pope said he’s been focusing on staying mentally strong and capitalising on opportunities. “I’ve tried not to let it affect me too much,” he said, referring to outside expectations and pressures. “When I get in, I try to make sure I make the most of it… and get my headspace in as good a place as possible.”
He admitted disappointment at not converting the century into a bigger score, having been dismissed early on Day 3, but remained upbeat about his performance. “It was disappointing not to kick on this morning, but I’m really happy with how I went about it and played. I’m happy with where my game’s at—so hopefully, I can kick on.”
With the match finely balanced, Pope highlighted the value of lower-order contributions that helped England narrow the first-innings deficit to just six runs. Cameos from Chris Woakes (38) and Brydon Carse (22) proved vital in England posting 465 in reply to India’s 471.
“[A deficit of] 40 or 50, just from a mindset, might have given them more confidence… Playing from an even field felt quite important,” Pope explained. He also credited KL Rahul for his unbeaten 47 in India’s second innings and emphasised the need for early wickets to regain control.
Looking ahead, Pope acknowledged the challenges of the fast outfield and a still-responsive pitch. “The pitch is still playing really well. It’s obviously such a quick-scoring ground with the lightning outfield. Tomorrow morning’s session is going to be important. The game is poised in a nice position.”
At stumps on Day 3, India led by 96 runs, finishing at 90/2, with KL Rahul (47)* and Shubman Gill (6)* at the crease. Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling attack with 5/83, while Harry Brook (99) and Pope starred for England with the bat.
Brief Scores:
- England: 465 (Ollie Pope 106, Harry Brook 99; Jasprit Bumrah 5/83)
- India: 471 & 90/2 (KL Rahul 47*, Sai Sudharsan 30, Ben Stokes 1/18)