England's Ollie Pope Shines with Century in Third Test Against Sri Lanka

England's Ollie Pope Hits Timely Century in Third Test Against Sri Lanka / Getty Images

In a thrilling turn of events at the Kia Oval, England's Ollie Pope hit a timely century, his seventh for the team, leading the hosts to a commanding 221-3 against Sri Lanka on the first day of the third Test. Pope's unbeaten 103 not out included a boundary that brought up his milestone, providing a much-needed spark on an otherwise gloomy day.

The day started with a rain delay, but the fans were soon entertained as Pope ensured England's innings got off to a flying start. After losing the toss and being made to bat first in the final Test of the three-match series, England was reduced to 76-1 before bad light and rain forced an early lunch. Opener Ben Duckett offered the most resistance with his 10th half-century after his counterpart Dan Lawrence was removed in the 10th over.

When play resumed, Duckett and Pope motored England past 100 before Duckett was dismissed for 86. Joe Root added 13 to England's tally but was dismissed by Lahiru Kumara, leaving the hosts on 191-3. Pope, who had plenty to prove to his critics, carried on from where Duckett left off, top-edging Kumara for a six and a four to bring up his 14th fifty. He shared an unbeaten fourth-wicket partnership with Harry Brook (8no), hitting 13 fours and two sixes before the players were forced to leave the ground for the second time due to bad light.

Dan Lawrence's struggles continued as he was dismissed for 5, leaving the England selectors questioning his place in the team. Lawrence, who came into the side as a replacement for the injured Zak Crawley, has been unable to leave a memorable impression, racking up combined scores of 64 and 16 in the first and second Tests respectively.