Photo Credit: ESPN Cricinfo
The first Test between England and India at Headingley is perfectly poised for a dramatic finish. Day 4 saw remarkable centuries from KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, who powered India to a commanding second-innings total of 364, setting England an imposing target of 371 runs to win on the final day.
Rahul and Pant Anchor India’s Dominance
India began the fourth day at 90/2, aiming to set a competitive target. What followed was a masterclass in Test batting. KL Rahul produced a patient and technically sound innings, scoring 137 off 247 balls, his ninth Test hundred and eighth overseas. His knock was marked by textbook cover drives and solid footwork, especially against England’s seamers.
At the other end, Rishabh Pant countered with his trademark aggression, hammering 118 off 140 balls. Pant’s fearless strokeplay lifted India’s scoring rate and unsettled England’s bowling attack. His innings marked a significant milestone—becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to score centuries in both innings against England.
Together, Rahul and Pant stitched a 195-run stand for the fourth wicket, taking the match away from England for the majority of the day.
Late Collapse Gives England Hope
Despite their dominant position, India’s lower-order faltered late in the day. From 333/4, they collapsed to 364 all out, losing six wickets for just 31 runs. England pacer Josh Tongue led the charge, claiming three wickets in a dramatic over, while Brydon Carse and Chris Woakes also contributed with key breakthroughs.
This sudden collapse breathed life into England’s hopes and left the visitors slightly vulnerable heading into the final day.
England’s Challenge: 371 to Win
By stumps, England had reached 21/0, with openers Zak Crawley (12) and Ben Duckett (9)** negotiating the final few overs with composure. With 90 overs to bat and 10 wickets in hand, England need 350 more runs to pull off what would be one of their most famous Test wins.
The pitch at Headingley has remained fairly consistent, though signs of variable bounce and some cracks could come into play on Day 5. India will count on their bowling attack to exploit these subtle changes.
India’s Bowlers Gear Up for Final Push
India’s bowling lineup, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, will be key on the final day. Bumrah’s reverse swing and Jadeja’s accuracy and ability to extract turn from the rough will be vital weapons. The Indian camp is confident that the pitch will deteriorate further, aiding their attack.
Rahul, in his post-day comments, emphasized the importance of staying patient and using the cracks in the pitch to India’s advantage.
England’s Bazball Philosophy Faces Real Test
Under the leadership of Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, England have redefined Test match strategy with their aggressive “Bazball” style. That philosophy now faces one of its sternest tests—chasing 371 against a world-class bowling attack under pressure.
Fast bowler Josh Tongue, speaking after the day’s play, expressed confidence that England will go for the win, not a draw. The team believes that if they can survive the early spells from Bumrah and Jadeja, they have the batting depth to chase down the total.
Tactical Adjustments on Both Sides
Much attention will be on field placements and bowling plans. England were criticized for overly defensive tactics earlier in the day, allowing Rahul and Pant to settle. That approach will have to change on the final day, with quick wickets needed to avoid a repeat of the Lord’s 2021 collapse.
India, meanwhile, must maintain intensity, rotate bowlers strategically, and stay disciplined with lines and lengths.
Historical Context and Records
England’s chase of 371 would surpass their previous highest successful fourth-innings run chase at Headingley—359 against Australia in 2019. It would also rank among the highest chases in Test history.
India, on the other hand, have not defended a 350+ total in England since 1986. A win here would mark a historic result and set the tone for the rest of the series.
