### England's Resilient Comeback: Ollie Pope's Century Sparks Hope Against India - The first Test match between India and England at Headingley has seen a dramatic shift in momentum. After India posted a formidable first-innings total of 471, England responded with a strong batting performance, led by Ollie Pope's impressive century. By the end of Day 3, India was 96 runs ahead with a score of 96-2 in their second innings, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the match [https://www.dubaieye1038.com/news/sports/india-96-2-in-second-innings-after-brook-leads-england-comeback]. ### Structure of the Match Progression 1. **India's Dominance in First Innings** - India scored 471 runs, with notable contributions from Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill. - Jasprit Bumrah's bowling was pivotal, taking 5 wickets for 83 runs [https://www.indiatvnews.com/sports/cricket/ind-vs-eng-england-punch-back-strong-with-ollie-pope-century-to-bring-leeds-test-on-balance-after-day-2-2025-06-21-995710]. 2. **England's Response on Day 2** - Ollie Pope scored an unbeaten century (106 runs), helping England reach 209-3 at stumps on Day 2, trailing by 262 runs [https://www.rediff.com/cricket/report/leeds-test-pix-pope-century-leads-englands-strong-reply-on-day-2-india-pant-gill/20250622.htm]. - Harry Brook also contributed significantly with a near-century, scoring 99 runs [https://www.dubaieye1038.com/news/sports/england-steady-the-ship-with-brook-after-india-remove-centurion-pope]. 3. **Day 3 Developments** - England continued to build on their momentum, reaching 465 runs in their first innings before being bowled out. - India ended Day 3 at 96-2, maintaining a lead of 96 runs, with the match finely poised for an exciting finish [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3467529-englands-steady-batting-struggle-against-india-in-opening-test]. ### Key Statistics and Highlights - **Ollie Pope's Performance**: Scored 106 runs, marking his ninth Test century and second against India [https://www.business-standard.com/cricket/news/ollie-pope-hits-2nd-test-ton-vs-india-first-repeat-opponent-in-his-list-125062100962_1.html]. - **Harry Brook's Contribution**: Scored 99 runs, showcasing a strong partnership with Pope [https://www.expressandstar.com/uk-sports/2025/06/22/harry-brook-builds-on-ollie-pope-century-as-england-chip-away-at-india-lead]. - **India's Bowling**: Jasprit Bumrah's 5-wicket haul was crucial in restricting England's first innings [https://www.english.mathrubhumi.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-england-bumrahs-5-83-hands-india-slender-lead-pant-becomes-third-indian-with-150-catches-qkb2by99]. ### Conclusion: A Thrilling Test Match Ahead - **Current Standings**: As of the end of Day 3, India leads by 96 runs with 96-2 in their second innings, setting up a tense final day [https://www.dubaieye1038.com/news/sports/india-96-2-in-second-innings-after-brook-leads-england-comeback]. - **Key Players to Watch**: Ollie Pope and Harry Brook for England, and Rishabh Pant for India, will be crucial in determining the outcome of this closely contested match. - **Final Thoughts**: The match remains delicately poised, with both teams having opportunities to seize victory. The final day promises to be an exciting conclusion to this gripping Test series opener.