KL Rahul continued his fine run as India’s second-innings stalwart on the England tour, delivering another crucial half-century to steady the side on Day 4 of the second Test at Edgbaston.
Following up on his 137 in the Leeds Test’s second innings, Rahul once again rose to the occasion, crafting a composed 55 to push India’s lead beyond the 300-run mark and put the pressure firmly back on England. It was his 18th Test fifty and second successive one in the second innings this series, underlining his value in crunch situations.
Resuming at 64/1, India looked to build on their advantage, but the morning brought an early setback. Karun Nair, promoted to No. 3 in this Test, failed to capitalise on his start. After adding 45 runs for the second wicket with Rahul, Nair edged a seaming delivery from Brydon Carse to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith while attempting a loose drive, departing for 26.
Rahul, however, held firm and looked solid until Josh Tongue produced a beauty in the 30th over of the innings. The delivery was full, angled in, and jagged back just enough to breach Rahul’s defence, sending his middle stump cartwheeling. It was a fitting reward for Tongue’s persistence and a blow for India, but one that didn’t derail their momentum.
Skipper Shubman Gill and vice-captain Rishabh Pant took charge after Rahul’s dismissal, with Pant, in particular, shifting gears to keep the scoreboard ticking briskly. Together, they ensured India remained in control, extending the lead and eyeing a target that could put the match out of England’s reach.
