Cricket maestro Sachin Tendulkar lauded Ollie Pope for leading England’s remarkable resurgence against India in the second innings of the inaugural Test in Hyderabad. Pope’s outstanding performance, complemented by Tom Hartley’s impressive 7-wicket haul, played a pivotal role in England securing a hard-fought 28-run triumph in the thrilling IND vs ENG 1st Test.
“The best stories are the ones with unexpected twists & @OPope32 scripted one for his team. When the chips were down for his team he shone through with a combination of sound shot selection, staying positive and good footwork, especially against our spinners. This is surely a standout performance by an Englishman on Indian soil.” Sachin wrote on X ( Formerly Twitter)
The vice-captain of the England squad exhibited exceptional fortitude, concluding Day 3 unbeaten at 148 and appearing poised for a potential double-century. Pope scored an exceptional innings of 196 runs to help England get a 230-run lead in the second innings.
Ollie Pope’s innings in Hyderabad etched itself as one of the most memorable displays by an English batsman on Indian soil. Carrying his exceptional form from the overnight session, Pope significantly contributed to England’s spirited comeback in the game.
Unfortunately, his innings concluded just four runs short of a well-deserved double century when Jasprit Bumrah dismissed him with a reverse scoop. England’s captivating turnaround highlighted Pope’s golden touch, leaving an indelible mark in the intense contest of the IND vs ENG 1st Test.