Trisha Ghosal in Leeds
As this pulsating first Test barrels towards a grandstand finish, India find themselves 350 runs ahead with 90 overs to defend it and 10 wickets to take. KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant were the architects of India’s second innings surge, with a superb 195-run partnership built on poise and fire.
While Rahul delivered a masterclass in orthodox, technically sound batting, Pant lit up Headingley with typically fearless strokeplay before falling for a well made 118. Despite their brilliance, India’s lower-order collapse — losing six wickets for 31— meant they left England chasing 371, instead of a total pushing past 400.
Speaking after stumps on Day 4, KL Rahul was candid, thoughtful, and quietly bullish about India’s chances.
On Whether India Scored Enough
“We learnt from the mistakes we made in Australia,” Rahul said. “At tea, there was some discussion on how much is enough, and whether to give them a few overs. Ideally, we would’ve liked about 40 more runs. But we still feel it’s a very good total.”
India had England at arm’s length for most of the day but couldn’t quite close the innings with the dominance they’d built.
On Returning to the Top of the Order
“In the last few years, I had almost forgotten what my actual position is,” Rahul smiled. “But I’ve always said, I’ll take any role the team asks of me. I’ve opened before, and I’m glad to do it again. I enjoy that responsibility.”
Having spent recent years in and out of different roles, Rahul’s return to the top was not just seamless — it was defining.
🚨 KL Rahul PC
“Last few years I had forgotten what my actual position is…” KL Rahul after day’s play.
Full PC: https://t.co/Hc1edVJc2M#KLRahul #ENGvsIND @RohanDC98 @CricSubhayan @TrishaGhosal pic.twitter.com/WtdF7JbG13
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) June 23, 2025
On India’s Strategy for Day 5
“There’s definitely going to be a result,” Rahul asserted. “That’s what England have said openly, and it gives us the chance to pick 10 wickets. The wicket today was tricky, and it might break up even more tomorrow. We’ll give ourselves the best chance to win.”
With spin showing signs of grip and Bumrah fresh for a fiery spell, India’s bowling attack has options on the final day.
On Batting With Pant
“You just stand there and admire him… and sometimes scratch your head!” Rahul laughed. “He plays shots none of us in this room will understand. He has a unique style, and you just have to let him be Rishabh Pant. He enjoys the game in a way that’s infectious.”
Their chemistry at the crease was evident — Rahul holding the innings together, Pant injecting momentum. It’s a partnership that could yet prove decisive.
India have the runs. England have the belief. The forecast has the rain. And Headingley, as ever, has the drama.
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