The ongoing Test match between India and England at Headingley witnessed a masterclass from KL Rahul as he smashed a stunning century to keep India in the game. On Day 04, the star batter delivered a sensational 202-ball hundred, his ninth in Test cricket, ensuring India remained competitive despite early struggles in their second innings.
Rahul reached his century in style, taking two runs off the last ball of the 62nd over. The moment was electric as he kissed the crest on his helmet and shared a heartfelt hug with teammate Rishabh Pant. This wasn’t just any hundred—it was a historic feat. Rahul became the first Indian opener ever to score three Test centuries in England, further cementing his reputation as a formidable batter in overseas conditions.
His Test career, which began in 2014 against Australia, has now seen him accumulate 3,410 runs in 59 matches at an average of 34.8. With nine centuries and 17 half-centuries, Rahul has proven his mettle in the longest format of the game, especially against top-tier bowling attacks.
Former England cricketer Nasser Hussain was among those who showered praise on Rahul’s performance. Speaking on Sky Cricket, Hussain lauded the batter’s elegance and resilience. “He is so elegant. Even when a ball goes past the outside edge, it doesn’t faze him too much. If you want to learn how to bat in English conditions, he is giving you a masterclass,” Hussain said.
India’s second innings didn’t start smoothly, with early dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan on Day 03. Shubman Gill also fell early on Day 04, leaving India in a precarious position. But Rahul’s composure and calculated aggression steadied the ship, giving the visitors a fighting chance.
Earlier in the match, India’s bowlers faced a tough challenge as England posted 465 in their first innings. Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul was crucial in restricting England’s lead to just six runs, setting the stage for Rahul’s heroics later in the game.