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India's batter KL Rahul stepped up to fill the crucial number four spot typically held by Virat Kohli, and displayed his skill and composure with a determined fifty in his 50th Test match. Rahul's expertise was evident as he achieved a resilient half-century, steering India to a dominant position in the initial session of Day 2 in the first Test.
The 31-year-old, in the ongoing opening Test in Hyderabad, showcased brilliance by scoring a magnificent 86 against England in the second innings.
The day commenced with Joe Root taking the ball and promptly making an impact by dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal in the very first over. Despite a close call on the next delivery with a chance dropped by wicketkeeper Ben Foakes, Rahul capitalised on the opportunity, stabilising the Indian innings. On the other hand, his partner Shubman Gill struggled to find his rhythm and eventually fell to Tom Hartley, granting the bowler his first Test wicket.
Meanwhile, Rahul delivered an impressive performance, exhibiting impeccable timing and drawing confidence from his recent century against South Africa at Centurion earlier this month. Despite the challenging conditions at the RGI Stadium, which were markedly different from the SuperSport Park, and with England's spinners finding an improved rhythm, Rahul showcased technical correctness against both spin and pace. His steadfast approach contributed to India scoring 103 runs at a rate of 3.81 runs per over.
Executing light footwork reminiscent of a ballet dancer, Rahul met Tom Hartley's delivery midway, guiding it through long-on for a boundary. His flawless timing was evident as he punched pacer Mark Wood through the covers for another four.
RAHUL SHINES AT NO.4
Rahul's knack for improvisation became evident when he executed a paddle-pull, sending Wood's delivery for a four behind square leg. Shortly thereafter, he secured his 14th Test fifty by taking a single off Joe Root. With Shreyas Iyer joining Rahul at the crease, England's pace attack, spearheaded by Mark Wood, intensified the pressure. Despite Wood's challenging spell, Iyer managed to settle in, particularly against England's spinners. Together, Rahul and Iyer forged a robust partnership, with Rahul reaching his fifty and Iyer contributing valuable runs.
India had a fruitful session, accumulating 103 runs from 27 overs while losing two wickets. The collaboration between Rahul and Iyer not only stabilized the innings after the early dismissal of Jaiswal but also laid the groundwork for India to target a substantial first-innings total. Their goal was straightforward: bat deep, build a considerable lead, and potentially put England in a challenging position, capitalizing on the advantage they had diligently created.
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