Ben Duckett Shines with Historic Century in Headingley Test
Duckett's Remarkable Performance
Ben Duckett, the dynamic opener for England, has made history by becoming the second player since Alastair Cook to achieve two scores over 50 in a Headingley Test in the last three decades.
During the opening match of the series against India, Duckett faced the early challenges posed by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, setting a solid foundation for England's dominance. He scored 62 runs in the first innings and followed it up with a spectacular century before rain interrupted play in Leeds.
In his first innings, Duckett's composed knock of 62 runs off 94 balls, featuring nine boundaries, helped maintain a brisk scoring rate until Bumrah dismissed him.
Duckett's Assault on Indian Bowlers
Duckett continued to frustrate Indian captain Shubman Gill and his team with his aggressive batting style, ensuring that the visitors faced a challenging time on the field.
He quickly raced into the 90s, attempting to secure his century in style. However, his ambitious pull shot was directed straight towards Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Capitalizing on a Missed Catch
Jaiswal, who had already dropped three catches in the first innings, missed another opportunity, allowing Duckett to survive on 97 runs, much to Siraj's disbelief.
Duckett seized this chance, executing a reverse sweep that sped past the boundary for four runs. He celebrated his achievement with a triumphant leap under the overcast skies of Headingley.
This century marks the first by an England opener in the fourth innings of a Test match since Cook's unbeaten 109 against Bangladesh in Mirpur back in 2010. Additionally, it is Duckett's first century in the second innings.
