Ben Duckett described Ollie Pope's century in England's first Test against India as giving him "goosebumps" on an enthralling day of action at Headingley.
Pope struck his ninth Test hundred for England on Saturday, ending the day unbeaten on 100 as England finished 209-3, trailing India by 262 runs heading into the third day.
Much was made about Pope's selection heading into the series, with many believing that the vice-captain should have been replaced by rising star Jacob Bethell.
England captain Ben Stokes said it would be "remarkable" if he had left Pope out, and his decision paid off as the England star built on 171 his against Zimbabwe.
Coming into the series, Pope had averaged just 22.1 against India and Australia, compared to his career average of 35.5.
However, one of his most important Test scores came against his current opponents 18 months ago, firing 196 against India in Hyderabad.
Duckett was full of praise for Pope after he silenced the doubters with a vital innings, telling Sky Sports: "I had goosebumps when he got his 100.
"He is such a big part of the dressing room. He didn't need to do that but to go and do it, I take my hat off to him. I can't wait to give him a hug.
"We know there is noise outside of the dressing room but to go and score 170 followed up by a hundred against this attack, there's no better response.
"He's a run-scorer. He does get in and he gets hundreds. At three, against India, someone like Pope - it's a no-brainer. He did it away as well with that ridiculous hundred when we won. He is a match-winner and it's a great start from him."
Duckett formed a 162-run partnership with Pope after the early wicket of Zak Crawley. The opener said it is easier to bat when Pope is at the other end.
"You go one down early, and he comes in and scores a run-a-ball 50. He takes all the pressure off you, he scores quick. He's such a legend and a big part of this team," he added.
"Me and Popey spoke a lot. When you field for 120 overs or whatever we did, it's big to really try and keep each other going. Legs can be tired.
"That was the one bad shot I played. That's the game. But it's been a pretty good day."
