Pope’s First Century as Captain Highlights England’s Strong Start
Ollie Pope delivered a standout performance on the opening day of the third Test against Sri Lanka at The Oval, scoring a stylish 103 not out. This innings marked Pope’s first century as England captain since taking over from the injured Ben Stokes. When bad light halted play, England were well-placed at 221-3, thanks to Pope’s remarkable knock.
Historic Milestone Pope’s Seventh Century Against Different Opponents
Pope’s century was his seventh in Test cricket and, notably, each of his first seven centuries has been scored against different opponents—an unprecedented achievement in the 147-year history of Test cricket. This milestone highlights his adaptability and skill across various teams.
Sri Lanka Struggles Despite Favorable Conditions
Sri Lanka, already trailing 2-0 in the series, struggled to make the most of overcast conditions and a green-tinged pitch after captain Dhananjaya de Silva won the toss. England could have had another century-maker in Ben Duckett, who made 86 but gave his wicket away once again. Duckett praised Pope for overcoming recent criticism from former England captain Michael Vaughan about his ability to balance leadership and batting at No. 3.
“There has been quite a lot of noise around Popey in the last couple of weeks,” Duckett said after stumps. “To block that out and score an incredible hundred was so good.”
Duckett and Lawrence Fall Short as Sri Lankan Attack Struggles
Ben Duckett reached a brisk fifty off just 48 balls but fell to a misjudged scoop off Milan Rathnayake, caught by wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal. Dan Lawrence, who was filling in as opener due to Zak Crawley’s injury, was dismissed for just five after struggling against a short-pitched delivery from Lahiru Kumara.
Joe Root and the Quest for a Historic Clean Sweep
Joe Root, fresh from two centuries in England’s 190-run victory at Lord’s where he set a new record of 34 Test centuries, was dismissed for 13 shortly before tea. England, having swept the West Indies 3-0 earlier this season, are aiming for their first home Test series clean sweep since 2004, when Michael Vaughan led England to seven successive wins.
Pope’s Stylish Century and England’s Strong Position
Pope, who had made a century against the West Indies at Trent Bridge earlier this season, began his innings with flair, cutting a loose ball for four and hitting a six off Kumara. He reached his century with a stylish square drive off Asitha Fernando, his 13th four in 102 balls, which also included two sixes.
Despite a brief delay for bad light and rain, which halted play until 1410 GMT, Pope’s performance and England’s position at 221-3 provide a solid foundation for a potential historic series finish.