On Saturday, January 27, England’s senior batsman Joe Root gave his younger teammate Ollie Pope a lot of credit after Pope’s fifth Test century enabled the visiting side to mount a formidable comeback. Root said this is an inning among the greatest he has seen from a foreign player, complimenting Pope’s ability to handle the situation.
The English established a 126-run lead after the third day of play in the first Test of the five-match series between India and England in Hyderabad. The English had amassed 316 runs at the expense of six wickets. A significant factor in ensuring England’s outstanding position was Pope’s resilient 148-run innings.
“Pope’s performance today… It’s a lesson in how to bat in these conditions as a foreign player, to be honest. After the third day of play, Root observed, “It’s uncommon to see someone who doesn’t shy away from these challenges and doesn’t bounce back strongly after a serious injury.”
“I’ve seen better innings than this one up to this point. I’ve played with many great cricket players and watched a lot of the sport, so seeing today’s performance was just exceptional.”
“I’m thrilled for him. And when he approached me today and said, “Can you push for me as vice captain?” I wasn’t the least bit surprised. Since the entire fielding effort against that onslaught showed attention, resolve, physical fitness, and talent,” he continued.
Root was England’s most successful batsman in Indian conditions going into the Test. He was dismissed for 2 runs and 29 runs in the first innings of the Hyderabad Test, respectively; therefore, he was unable to have a big influence. In Indian conditions, other batsmen also did not have much luck, particularly in the second inning. However, Root asserted that Pope has established a new benchmark for use in Indian circumstances.
“I believe that Pope’s innings set a standard. To tell the truth, I may have previously scored some runs under subcontinental conditions. but not in the face of such an assault. To be honest, today was unique, and it means a lot to see Pope so confident and in still confidence in the others. He supported it this morning when he spoke in front of the team.
“Even though England is still on the back foot and could possibly lose the first Test, Pope’s innings and the team’s overall performance on the third day will keep the team in a good position for the remaining four matches of the series.”
“From the start of the day to the end, cricket was fantastic. We’ve performed admirably today to maintain our current status. And I anticipate that the remaining portions of the game will continue on for a very long time.