IND vs ENG Test: Ben Duckett Scripts History at Headingley with Twin 50-Plus Scores
In a remarkable display of grit and flair, Ben Duckett has etched his name into the annals of English cricket history during the gripping Test match against India at Headingley. Duckett has become only the second English opener in the last 30 years to register twin 50-plus scores in a Test at this iconic venue, mirroring the legendary feat of Alastair Cook.
Duckett’s heroics began in the first innings with a polished 62 off 94 balls, studded with nine boundaries, as he anchored England’s innings with calm authority. However, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah cut his stay short, rattling the stumps to dismiss the left-hander. Undeterred, Duckett returned in the second innings with a blistering unbeaten century—his first in the fourth innings of a Test—propelling England into a commanding position in this series opener.
The second innings saw Duckett at his aggressive best, dismantling the Indian bowling attack led by captain Shubman Gill. His rapid progress to a ton was nearly halted at 97 when a miscued pull shot went skyward. Indian fielder Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had already dropped three catches in the first innings, spilled a fourth to the visible frustration of bowler Mohammed Siraj. Seizing the lifeline, Duckett notched his century with a daring reverse sweep for four, celebrating with a jubilant leap and fist pump under Headingley’s overcast skies.
This century carries added significance as Duckett became the first English opener since Alastair Cook’s unbeaten 109 against Bangladesh in Mirpur in 2010 to score a hundred in the fourth innings of a Test. His ability to neutralize the early threat from Indian pacers like Bumrah and Siraj showcased a perfect blend of defensive resilience and attacking intent. Notably, Duckett’s performance at Headingley—a ground steeped in English cricket lore—echoes Cook’s twin feats in 2007 against India, where the former captain also dominated with scores of 60 and 106.
Statistically, Duckett’s achievement is a rare gem. Since 1993, no English opener had replicated such consistency at Headingley in a Test against India until now. His knocks have not only bolstered England’s position but also underlined his growing stature as a vital cog in the team’s batting lineup. With India struggling to contain England’s momentum—partly due to fielding lapses and inconsistent bowling—this Test could mark a turning point in the series, currently poised at a critical juncture.
As the match unfolds, Duckett’s historic performance serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of Test cricket at Headingley, a venue synonymous with dramatic finishes and iconic individual displays. Can India stage a comeback, or will Duckett’s masterclass inspire England to a memorable victory? Only time will tell, but for now, the spotlight belongs to a man who has dared to dream big and deliver under pressure.