Ollie Pope Leads England with Unbeaten Century in Second Test Against West Indies

Ollie Pope scored an unbeaten 115 to guide England to 259-4 at tea on the first day of the second test against West Indies at Trent Bridge. Despite being dropped twice, he compiled his sixth test century. Ben Duckett contributed with a quick 71, putting England in a strong position.

Ollie Pope showcased his perseverance by scoring an unbeaten 115, leading England to 259-4 at tea on the first day of their second test against West Indies at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Pope, who was given lifelines at 46 and 54, secured his sixth test century. England's solid start was anchored by Ben Duckett's brisk 71 in the morning session, despite an early setback when Zak Crawley was caught at slip by Alick Athanaze off Alzarri Joseph's delivery in the very first over.

Duckett's aggressive start helped him reach his fifty off just 32 balls, but his innings was cut short at 71 when he nicked a delivery from Shamar Joseph to Jason Holder. Pope capitalized on his chances and reached his hundred with a confident boundary before celebrating with the crowd.

Other notable contributions included Harry Brook's swift 36 and Captain Ben Stokes, who was unbeaten on 15 at the interval. England made one change in their lineup, bringing in pace bowler Mark Wood for the retired James Anderson. The West Indies also made a change, with Kevin Sinclair replacing Gudakesh Motie due to illness.

(With inputs from agencies.)