Ollie Pope (100 runs off 131 balls) led England’s fightback on Day 2 of the first Test at Headingley with a composed unbeaten century. After losing early wickets, Pope steadied the innings with a crucial partnership, guiding England to 209/3 at stumps. They now trail India by 262 runs, keeping the contest finely poised heading into Day 3.

After a dominant Day 1 by India, England clawed back into the contest on Day 2 at Headingley.

Following Shubman Gill’s elegant 147, India looked set for a massive first-innings total. However, a sudden collapse saw the visitors lose their final seven wickets for just 41 runs, finishing at 471.

Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling effort with intensity, constantly creating chances. Unfortunately for India, poor fielding let them down—Ben Duckett was dropped three times early in his innings. He capitalized on the lifelines to score 62 before Bumrah finally clean-bowled him in his second spell.

Ollie Pope had a nervy start but grew in confidence as the ball softened and the pitch flattened. With little support for Bumrah from the rest of the bowling attack, England stabilized and closed the day at a promising 209/3. The hosts now trail by 262 runs but have regained vital ground in what is shaping up to be a gripping Test match.

India Post 471 in First Innings

India made a strong statement with the bat in the first innings of the Leeds Test against England, posting a total of 471 runs. Powered by centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant, the visitors looked poised for a mammoth total.

However, a dramatic collapse saw India lose their last six wickets for just 41 runs.

Batting first after losing the toss, India’s top order took charge. Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a composed 101 off 159 balls, giving the team a solid start alongside KL Rahul, who added 42 in a 91-run opening stand. Skipper Shubman Gill then played a classy knock of 147 (227), while Rishabh Pant continued his fine form with a fluent 134 off 178 deliveries. Their centuries put India in a commanding position at 430/3.

Just as India seemed set for a 600+ total, the innings unraveled. The lower order offered little resistance, as England’s bowlers staged a spirited comeback. From 430/3, India were bundled out for 471, squandering a strong foundation.

Despite being on the back foot for most of the innings, England managed to turn the tide late. Ben Stokes and Josh Tongue claimed four wickets each, while Brydon Carse and Shoaib Bashir took one apiece. Chris Woakes, however, went wicketless and expensive, conceding 103 runs in 24 overs.

India’s total still gives them the upper hand, but England’s late fightback has kept them in the contest heading into Day 3.