Image Credit: BCCI
KL Rahul, Pant Set Up 371-Run Target for England at Leeds
India ended Day 4 of the Leeds Test in a commanding position after setting England a challenging target of 371, thanks to brilliant centuries by KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. The duo’s fourth-wicket partnership laid the foundation for what could be a historic win for India on English soil.
KL Rahul Anchors the Innings
Opening the batting, KL Rahul delivered a masterclass in control and temperament, scoring 137—his third century in England and eighth overall as an opener. Speaking after the day’s play, Rahul acknowledged the mental shift in his approach. He said he had stopped chasing milestones and instead focused on playing with a calm mindset. “I am much calmer in my head and not chasing numbers anymore,” he said, crediting his renewed form to simplified routines and the support of the coaching staff.
Rahul’s return to the top of the order was a talking point, especially after having batted in various middle-order roles over recent seasons. “I am happy to be given different responsibilities… It makes the game exciting and makes me want to challenge myself,” he added.
Pant’s Fire Complements Rahul’s Ice
Rishabh Pant, continuing his fearless form, smashed 118 in the second innings—his second century of the match. With his trademark aggression and unorthodox strokeplay, Pant became only the second wicketkeeper in Test history to score centuries in both innings of a match.
Together, Rahul and Pant added 195 runs for the fourth wicket, blunting England’s attack and dictating the pace of the game. Their stand combined Rahul’s composed accumulation with Pant’s counterattacking flair, drawing comparisons to a “song of ice and fire” on the cricket field.
Late Collapse Gives England a Chance
Despite the commanding partnership, India’s innings ended in a flurry, with the side collapsing from 348/4 to 364 all out—losing six wickets for just 16 runs. Josh Tongue played a pivotal role in the collapse, snaring three wickets in a single over to ignite a brief English resurgence.
England, set 371 to win, safely navigated a brief 8-over spell before stumps, finishing Day 4 at 21/0. With all ten wickets intact, the hosts will be eyeing a dramatic final-day chase, though the pitch has started showing signs of wear.
All Eyes on Day 5
KL Rahul emphasized that the pitch has begun to deteriorate and predicted that India’s spinners, especially Ravindra Jadeja, could be decisive on Day 5. “There’s enough wear and tear… It’s a perfect day—five wickets, and it’s going to be a blockbuster,” he said.
