Ollie Pope Silences Critics with Record Century

Ollie Pope hit a record-setting century as England maintained dominance over Sri Lanka in the third and final test of the series. Filling in as captain for the injured Ben Stokes, Pope led England to a strong position, overcoming early criticisms of his form and achieving a historic milestone.

Ollie Pope subdued his critics by scoring a record-setting century on his home turf, leading England to continued dominance over Sri Lanka at the outset of the third and final test of the series.

Standing in as captain for the injured Ben Stokes, Pope has already steered England to a series victory against the Sri Lankans with wins at Old Trafford and Lord's but came to the Oval under scrutiny for his recent poor form. He silenced doubters with a blistering 103 not out from just 103 deliveries, becoming the first player in test history to achieve his first seven centuries against different adversaries.

England wrapped up Day 1 at 221-3 despite weather interruptions, with Pope guiding the team alongside Harry Brook, who was 8 not out. England seeks to complete a perfect summer of home test series, a feat last achieved in 2004.

(With inputs from agencies.)