How Did India's Lead Expand to 357 with Rahul's 55 and Pant's Unbeaten 41?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
India's cricket team is making waves as they expand their lead in the second Test match. With KL Rahul's calm 55 and Rishabh Pant's explosive 41 not out, they've set the stage for an exciting showdown against England. Will India push their lead to 500 runs? Stay tuned for a thrilling cricketing saga!
Key Takeaways
- KL Rahul scored 55 runs.
- Rishabh Pant remained unbeaten on 41.
- India's lead increased to 357 runs.
- India reached 177/3 at lunch on Day Four.
- England struggled with only two wickets taken.
Birmingham, July 5 (NationPress) KL Rahul delivered a composed innings, scoring 55 runs, while Rishabh Pant showcased his explosive style, contributing an unbeaten 41 as India’s lead increased to 357 runs. By lunch on Day Four of the second Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series at Edgbaston on Saturday, India reached 177/3 in 38 overs.
Rahul resumed play on the fourth day at 28 and comfortably reached his 18th half-century in Tests off 78 balls before being bowled out by Josh Tongue. Pant, known for his brisk hitting, struck five boundaries and two sixes, forming an unbroken partnership of 51 runs for the fourth wicket with captain Shubman Gill, who remained not out on 24.
It remains to be seen whether India can extend their lead to 500 runs in the second session, setting up a significant challenge for England, especially given the possibility of rain.
The day’s play commenced with Rahul hitting two fours off Brydon Carse, with one edge flying past the gully. Carse then tested Karun Nair with short balls; one hit the grille of his helmet while another went through the slip cordon for four.
Despite Nair hitting three boundaries off Carse, the pacer eventually got his reward, as he caught Nair’s edge during an expansive drive, leading to a catch by keeper Jamie Smith, sending Nair back for 26.
Rahul celebrated another excellent fifty with a solid drive to long-off for three runs. However, he was left stunned when Tongue bowled a well-angled 138kmph delivery that breached his defenses, dislodging the middle stump as he departed for 55.
Pant’s entrance was lively, pulling Tongue for a boundary behind square and later hitting a straight six. He was given a lifeline on 10 when Zak Crawley dropped a catch during Ben Stokes' bowling.
This proved costly, as Pant quickly scored boundaries off Tongue and pulled Shoaib Bashir for three fours. In a humorous moment, he lost his grip on the bat, sending it flying to backward square-leg, bringing laughter before the session concluded with England managing only two wickets.
Brief scores:
India 587 and 177/3 in 38 overs (KL Rahul 55, Rishabh Pant 41 not out; Josh Tongue 2-50, Brydon Carse 1-56) lead England 407 by 357 runs.
Point of View
It's evident that India's performance is a testament to their skill and strategy. The leadership of players like KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant is crucial. This match exemplifies India's dominance, and the team appears poised to challenge England further.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was KL Rahul's score in the 2nd Test?
KL Rahul scored 55 runs in the second Test against England.
How many runs did India lead by at lunch?
India's lead expanded to 357 runs at lunch on Day Four.
Who was the standout player alongside Rahul?
Rishabh Pant was another standout player, scoring an unbeaten 41 runs.
What is the significance of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy?
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is a celebrated series between India and England, showcasing cricketing excellence.
What was India's score at lunch?
At lunch, India had scored 177/3 in 38 overs.
