Leeds, June 24: India and England set the stage for a thrilling final day at Headingley as the hosts reached 21/0 at stumps on Day 4, chasing a challenging target of 371 in the first Test. Openers Zak Crawley (12*) and Ben Duckett (9*) ensured no damage was done before close of play, navigating a tense six-over phase under fading light.Earlier, India appeared well on their way to building a massive lead, having reached 333/4 in the final session, before a sudden and sharp collapse saw them lose six wickets for just 37 runs.
The visitors were eventually bowled out for 364, leaving England with a steep yet achievable target on a pitch that has offered some movement for the seamers.
The day belonged to Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, who put on a magnificent 195-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Rahul played with poise and control, while Pant dazzled with flair and confidence.
Both batsmen brought up well-deserved centuries. For Pant, the innings was historic — he became the first Indian batter to score centuries in both innings of a Test in England, and the first Asian wicketkeeper to achieve this feat. He now joins an elite group as only the ninth visiting batter to score twin tons in a Test in England, the last being Steve Smith in 2019.
Despite the heroics, India will be disappointed with how the innings ended, losing momentum at a crucial time. England, buoyed by the late wickets, will return on Day 5 with belief in pulling off a memorable chase, while India will aim to make early breakthroughs to tilt the game back in their favour. With 350 runs still needed and all ten wickets intact, the final day promises high drama.