KL Rahul Helps India Take Lead After England Fight Back in Leeds Test - Crichourly Match Report

Leeds, June 22, 2025 – KL Rahul played a calm and steady innings to help India take a 96-run lead at the end of Day 3 in the first Test against England. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul earlier, England’s lower-order batsmen fought hard to narrow the gap. India ended the day at 90 for 2 in their second innings, thanks to Rahul’s unbeaten 47 and his solid 66-run stand with young batter Sai Sudharsan.

England Bounce Back After Early Trouble

England started Day 3 trailing India but managed to take the lead thanks to a brilliant 99 from Harry Brook. The lower-order batsmen also chipped in, helping England reach 465. India had earlier collapsed for just 411, with their last six wickets adding only 41 runs. In contrast, England’s last six added a massive 240 runs.

Brook built strong partnerships with Ben Stokes and debutant Jamie Smith, frustrating the Indian bowlers. While Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj picked up wickets, India’s fielding let them down. Rishabh Pant and Sudharsan dropped crucial catches, and Jaiswal missed a simple chance to dismiss Brook.

Brook looked set for a century, smashing boundaries and a six, but fell one short of the milestone.

Rahul and Sudharsan Steady India’s Second Innings

India’s second innings began under gloomy skies with light drizzle. Yashasvi Jaiswal hit a boundary early but soon got out edging a delivery from Brydon Carse. Rahul then took charge, playing some beautiful strokes, including classic cover drives and flicks.

Sai Sudharsan, who had scored zero in the first innings, looked more confident this time. He started with a four and supported Rahul well, defending smartly and rotating the strike. They both made sure India slowly built a lead.

In the 10th over, Rahul ran four runs off a flick shot and then hit two more boundaries. He also looked comfortable facing England’s pacers, including Josh Tongue and Shoaib Bashir.

Just as their partnership was looking dangerous, Sudharsan fell to a clever ball from Ben Stokes, caught at short midwicket trying a flick shot. Shubman Gill joined Rahul and got going quickly with a boundary. Soon after, rain forced an early end to the day.

What’s Next?

What to Expect on Day 4 – Crichourly Match Prediction

Going into Day 4, India will look to extend their lead and put pressure on England in the fourth innings. With Rahul in form and Gill at the crease, India have a real chance to set a challenging target.

Cric Hourly match prediction: If India can add another 150-200 runs, England will face a tough chase on a pitch that’s beginning to offer something for bowlers.