KL Rahul's Century Powers India Ahead in First Test Battle at Headingley
As I speak, KL Rahul is etching another memorable chapter in his Test career, crafting a sublime century on Day 4 of the first Test against England at Headingley. His knock—now his ninth in Test cricket—has come at a crucial juncture, anchoring India’s commanding position in a match that has been evenly poised until now.
Earlier in the day, India resumed their second innings with a slight edge, having already secured a slender lead after both teams crossed the 450-run mark in their first innings. But it was KL Rahul’s calm, composed and eventually authoritative innings that shifted the momentum firmly in India's favor. He was dropped on 58—an opportunity England would come to deeply regret—as Rahul capitalized on that lifeline to methodically build his century, reaching the milestone in 202 balls.
What's truly commendable is how he navigated the conditions early in the day with patience, before accelerating post-lunch. His strokeplay was elegant yet controlled, especially the late cut that took him to 97 and the picture-perfect drive that sealed his century. At the other end, Rishabh Pant joined the act with his trademark flair, racing to a quick fifty and nearly notching another century himself—only to fall short, albeit after a scintillating effort.
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Together, this pair piled on the runs, with their fourth-wicket partnership pushing India’s lead well beyond the 250-run mark. The English bowling unit, led by Ben Stokes and Chris Woakes, lacked the consistency and penetration needed at this stage. Missed chances, including a tough dropped catch by Stokes to dismiss Pant, further compounded England's woes.
At the drinks break, India were sitting comfortably at 234 for 3, leading by 240, with Rahul still looking solid at the crease. As Pant edged toward a twin-century feat in the match, India’s plan was becoming clear—bat long, bat big, and give themselves a large cushion to bowl at England under pressure.
Even the commentators couldn’t help but praise Rahul’s grit and class. Cheteshwar Pujara aptly noted, “He’s one of our best Test players and is grabbing every opportunity.” That much is clear from the way Rahul has handled both the English bowling and the match situation.
Unless England can conjure a magical turnaround, India are on the brink of not just dictating the pace of this Test but possibly pushing for a declaration and a strong chance at victory. The way Rahul has paced this innings could well be remembered as a match-defining effort. His century hasn’t just been about numbers; it’s been about temperament, timing, and tactical mastery.
KL Rahul, take a bow.
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