Pope Nears Century As Duckett Falls Short in Weather-Hit Test

Ben Duckett's aggressive play fell short of a century, while Ollie Pope was on his way to three figures for England against Sri Lanka on the first day of the third test. England closed at 194-3, despite weather delays. Debutant Josh Hull and captain stand-in Ollie Pope were key figures.

Ben Duckett's enthusiastic approach saw him fall short of a century, while Ollie Pope inched closer to three figures for England against Sri Lanka on a rain-impacted first day of the third test.

England stood at 194-3 when late tea was called at the Oval, with Pope — acting as captain for Ben Stokes — unbeaten on 84, joined by Harry Brook, who had yet to score.

Duckett achieved an impressive 86 before a misguided scoop shot led to his dismissal at the hands of wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal off Milan Rathnayake's bowling. Before his exit, Duckett dazzled with bold boundaries, including a six and a four off Lahiru Kumara in consecutive overs.

If Pope secures a century post-tea, it will mark his seventh test ton against different opponents, a significant milestone for the under-scrutiny batter playing on his home ground.

Having already bagged wins at Old Trafford and Lord's, England is aiming for a series sweep, a feat last accomplished in 2004. Joe Root failed to extend his supreme form, getting out for just 13.

Earlier, play was halted for nearly three hours due to poor light and rain. Despite choosing to bowl under overcast conditions, Sri Lanka could not capitalize, managing only Dan Lawrence's early wicket before the umpires paused play.

Lawrence, replacing the injured Zak Crawley, continued his poor run with just 5 runs. Duckett's 10th half-century came off 48 balls, highlighted by nine fours and two sixes.

Debutant Josh Hull, at 20, was fast-tracked into the squad and handed his first test cap by ex-captain Andrew Flintoff, adding a personal milestone with family photos on the field.

England coach Brendon McCullum admitted it was a gamble to include Hull, eyeing future series including the Ashes next year.