Ben Duckett has heaped praise on Ollie Pope for his remarkable century against India in the first Test at Headingley. Duckett described watching Pope reach his hundred as giving him "goosebumps," highlighting the significance of the innings in the context of the match and Pope's career.

Pope's innings was crucial in England's fightback after India posted a formidable 471 in their first innings. England closed day two on 209-3, with Pope unbeaten on 100. The innings was even more significant considering the scrutiny Pope has been under regarding his place in the team, with calls for Jacob Bethell to replace him.

Duckett emphasized Pope's importance to the team's dressing room and lauded his resilience in silencing the external noise and pressure. "He is such a big part of the dressing room," Duckett said. "We know there is noise outside of the dressing room but to go and score 170 followed up by a hundred against this attack, there's no better response."

The opener also highlighted Pope's ability to score hundreds once he gets in, labeling him a "match-winner." Duckett added, "He's a run-scorer. He does get in and he gets hundreds. At three, against India, someone like Pope - it's a no-brainer. He did it away as well with that ridiculous hundred when we won. He is a match-winner and it's a great start from him."

Duckett and Pope forged a 122-run partnership. Duckett said that it is easier to bat with Pope. "You go one down early, and he comes in and scores a run-a-ball 50. He takes all the pressure off you, he scores quick. He's such a legend and a big part of this team,"

Pope's innings wasn't without its challenges. He had a testing start against Jasprit Bumrah in bowler-friendly conditions, narrowly avoided being dismissed lbw, and was dropped once. However, he persevered and showcased his class, reaching his ninth Test century and second against India.

Jasprit Bumrah posed the greatest threat to England, dismissing Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root. However, Pope managed to hold the Indian bowlers at bay with his gritty innings. At the end of the day, Harry Brook was also at the crease, not out for zero.

India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, also praised Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. Gill scored 147, while Pant scored 134.

With Pope's century and Bumrah's brilliance, the Test match is finely poised heading into Day 3.