Headingley, Leeds – In a display of sheer batting brilliance, India has set England a mammoth 371-run target on day four of the first Test at Headingley, thanks to twin centuries from Rishabh Pant and a vintage knock by KL Rahul. As the sun set on an exhilarating day of cricket, KL Rahul couldn’t hide his admiration for his teammate, stating, ‘You just let Rishabh Pant be Rishabh Pant. Stand out there and admire.‘
The Indian duo orchestrated a masterclass on a pitch that had something for everyone. Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, followed his 134 in the first innings with a breathtaking 118 off 140 balls in the second, becoming the first Indian to score twin centuries in a Test against England and only the second wicketkeeper in Test history to achieve this remarkable feat, joining Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara. His aggressive stroke play, peppered with audacious shots, left the Headingley crowd in awe and the English bowlers searching for answers.
At the other end, KL Rahul anchored the innings with a patient yet authoritative 137 off 247 balls, a knock that showcased his adaptability and temperament. Reflecting on his performance, Rahul said, ‘Was happy with the way I was batting in Australia, but unfortunately couldn’t convert starts into big runs. I learned there to make starts count.‘ On his ever-shifting role in the batting order, Rahul added, ‘I’ve forgotten what position I’m comfortable in over the last couple of years. I’m ready for whatever role the team needs. Opening has been enjoyable recently.‘
India’s total of 364 all out in the second innings was not without drama, as a late collapse saw the last six wickets fall for just 31 runs. England pacer Josh Tongue, the architect of the collapse with a fiery spell, expressed disappointment at missing out on a hat-trick but remained optimistic. ‘The dressing room is positive. We have a strong batting order, and we’re up for the challenge,‘ Tongue asserted.
By stumps, England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett had navigated a tricky final session to reach 21 without loss. However, with 350 runs still needed and just one day remaining, the hosts face an uphill battle. India, on the other hand, will fancy their chances with a bowling attack led by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin, who are primed to exploit the wearing pitch on day five.
Beyond the numbers, the day also highlighted India’s mentorship culture, with Rahul playing a key role in guiding younger players. ‘Everyone wants to improve. I’ve had lengthy conversations with whoever has approached me. This culture of learning has always been there,‘ he noted, underscoring the team spirit driving India’s dominance.
As we head into the final day, the Test hangs in a delicate balance. Will England pull off one of the most memorable chases in recent history, or will India’s bowlers seal a statement victory in this series opener? One thing is certain: day five at Headingley promises fireworks. Stay tuned for what could be a defining chapter in this storied rivalry.