Ollie Pope's magnificent, unbeaten century has reignited England's hopes in the first Test against India at Headingley. On the second day of the match, Pope's resilient innings steered England to 209-3 at stumps, significantly reducing the deficit after India's formidable first innings total.

India had started the day strongly, but England fought back, taking their last seven wickets within an hour either side of lunch, limiting them to 471. Shubman Gill's impressive 147 and Rishabh Pant's explosive 134 had put India in a commanding position, but Ben Stokes and Josh Tongue spearheaded England's fightback, each taking four wickets to dismantle the Indian lower order.

In response, England faced challenging, overcast conditions, and Jasprit Bumrah, the world's highest-ranked Test bowler, quickly made his presence felt by dismissing Zak Crawley early on. However, Ben Duckett and Pope forged a solid partnership, much to the delight of the Headingley crowd, adding 122 runs together. Bumrah struck again, removing Duckett for 62, but Pope remained steadfast, building another crucial partnership with Joe Root.

Pope's innings was not without its moments of fortune. He navigated a tricky spell from Bumrah, narrowly escaping an lbw decision and benefitting from a dropped catch. Despite these close calls, he displayed remarkable composure and skill, reaching his century off 125 balls. This was his ninth Test century and second against India.

Late in the day, Bumrah struck again, dismissing Root, but Harry Brook survived a nervous final over when he was caught off a Bumrah no-ball. At the close of play, Pope remained unbeaten on 100, having played a pivotal role in England's recovery.

Earlier in the day, England had fought back impressively with Stokes and Tongue leading the charge. Stokes took the crucial wickets of Gill and Ravindra Jadeja, while Tongue dismissed Pant, who had reached his century in spectacular fashion with a six, celebrating with a forward somersault.

Ollie Pope also contributed in the field, taking a stunning catch at cover to dismiss Karun Nair.