How Did KL Rahul's Unbeaten 72 Help India Extend Their Lead Against England?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- KL Rahul's experience is crucial in high-pressure situations.
- India's lead of 159 runs puts them in a strong position.
- Shubman Gill's early dismissal was a significant moment for England.
- The partnership between Rahul and Pant was pivotal for India's innings.
- Weather conditions played a role in the match dynamics.
Leeds, June 23 (NationPress) KL Rahul showcased his extensive experience by scoring an impressive unbeaten 72 during a challenging phase for India, pushing their lead to 159 runs after they reached 153/3 in 48 overs of their second innings at lunch on day four of the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Headingley on Monday.
Starting from 90/2, Brydon Carse struck early by dismissing Indian captain Shubman Gill in the first over. However, no further wickets fell for England as Rahul displayed remarkable composure and resilience, achieving his 18th Test half-century in a session where only 63 runs were scored off 24.1 overs.
With challenging conditions, including the ball moving and some deliveries bouncing unexpectedly, Rahul maintained his composure and partnered in an unbroken 61-run partnership with Rishabh Pant, who weathered the initial turbulence to remain not out on 31 off 59 balls.
In the morning session, under cloudy skies, Carse claimed a significant early wicket for England as he managed to get the ball to swing in, leading to Gill, who previously scored 147 in India's first innings, to be bowled out for just eight runs. Pant started aggressively but survived an LBW appeal, aided by replays indicating an inside edge, while a top-edge from Carse's delivery landed safely.
Rahul endured a few close calls before reaching his fifty, while Pant also narrowly avoided getting out LBW after attempting a risky shot against Carse. Rahul was granted a reprieve on 58 when Harry Brook dropped a catch off Josh Tongue. At this point, Pant had calmed down, engaging in positive self-talk, ensuring that India remained steady until the lunch break.
Brief Scores: India 471 and 153/3 in 48 overs (KL Rahul 72 not out, Rishabh Pant 31 not out; Brydon Carse 2-39, Ben Stokes 1-34) leads England 465 in 100.4 overs (Ollie Pope 106; Jasprit Bumrah 5-83) by 159 runs