Ollie Pope's magnificent century spearheaded a spirited England fightback against India on the second day of the first Test at Headingley. After India were bowled out for 471, Pope's unbeaten ton helped England reach 209-3 at stumps, reducing the deficit to 262 runs.

India had started the day in a commanding position at 359-3, with Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant looking well-set. Gill converted his overnight score to 147, while Pant reached a thrilling century of his own, finishing with 134. However, a dramatic collapse saw India lose their last seven wickets for just 41 runs, thanks to a strong comeback from the English bowlers, led by Josh Tongue, who ended with figures of 4-86, and Ben Stokes who picked up 4-66.

England's innings began under challenging, overcast conditions, ideal for seam bowling. Jasprit Bumrah, as expected, posed the greatest threat, dismissing Zak Crawley early in the first over. However, Ben Duckett joined Pope and the pair constructed a brilliant 122-run partnership to steady the ship. Duckett was eventually dismissed by Bumrah for 62, including nine boundaries.

Pope, who was given the nod ahead of Jacob Bethell at number three, initially had a shaky start, surviving a testing spell from Bumrah. He narrowly avoided an lbw decision on 34 and was dropped on 60. However, he showed resilience and capitalized on his reprieves. He reached his ninth Test century off 125 balls, marking his second against India.

Following Duckett's dismissal, Joe Root joined Pope, and the duo added 80 runs together. Bumrah struck again, dismissing Root for 28, caught at first slip. In the final over of the day, Bumrah appeared to have claimed his fourth wicket, with Harry Brook caught, but the delivery was deemed a no-ball, handing Brook a reprieve.

Despite the reprieve, Bumrah was the clear standout bowler for India, taking all three wickets to fall. However, he was also unlucky, with two catches being dropped off his bowling. Overall, it was a bittersweet day for India, who despite posting a large first innings total, saw England fight their way back into the match, led by Ollie Pope's brilliant century. At the close of play, Pope remained unbeaten on 100, with Harry Brook on 0*.