Rishabh Pant celebrates second century in Headingley as Pant 100 powers India into strong position
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🏏 Pant 100 headlines Day 4 action

Pant 100 was the defining moment on Day 4 of the Headingley Test as Rishabh Pant made history with his second century of the match. As a result, India gained full control, thanks to his blazing 118 and KL Rahul’s steady 137. Together, they set a massive 371-run target for England. By the close of play, the hosts had reached 21 without loss. However, they still need 350 more on the final day, with weather likely to play a part.

🔥 Pant 100 makes history in Leeds

Rishabh Pant became only the second wicketkeeper in Test history — after Andy Flower — to score centuries in both innings of a Test.

  • After Gill fell early, Pant quickly found his rhythm.
  • Initially, he played with caution. However, once he settled, he shifted gears with ease.
  • From 45 off 81 balls, he stormed to 72 off 92 deliveries.
  • Moreover, he showed maturity by taking 22 balls to go from 95 to 100, ensuring he reached the milestone safely.

Shortly after reaching his hundred, Pant took on Joe Root, smashing him for three boundaries and a six in a single over. Eventually, he fell trying to clear the ropes again, gifting Shoaib Bashir his first wicket. Nevertheless, his impactful knock had already put India well ahead.

🛡️ Rahul’s 137 supports Pant 100 perfectly

Meanwhile, KL Rahul played the role of anchor to perfection. His innings, full of patience and precision, complemented Pant 100 brilliantly.

  • He weathered a probing spell from Woakes and Tongue early in his knock.
  • At one point, he was dropped by Harry Brook on 58 — a chance that cost England dearly.
  • Rahul brought up his hundred with a classy drive and eventually reached 137.

Just like Pant, Rahul fell to Carse as he chopped one onto the stumps, just 13 runs short of 150. Still, his knock was vital in shaping India’s strong second innings.

⚠️ England fight back after Pant 100

The dismissal of Pant 100 was followed by a late burst from England’s bowlers.

First, Carse struck by removing Rahul.

Then, Woakes got rid of Nair with a sharp return catch.

Soon after, Josh Tongue delivered a brilliant over, removing Thakur, Siraj, and Bumrah in just four balls.

Consequently, India slipped from 322/5 to 349/9, briefly allowing England back into the contest.

🧱 Jadeja, post Pant 100, adds late runs

Despite the collapse, Ravindra Jadeja ensured India didn’t lose complete control.

  • He added a crucial 15 runs as Prasidh Krishna held up one end.
  • Therefore, India’s total swelled to 364, giving them a 371-run lead.
  • Soon after, Josh Tongue delivered a brilliant over, removing Thakur, Siraj, and Bumrah in just four balls.

🚨 England cautious after Pant 100 heroics

England openers Crawley and Duckett played out the final half-hour without taking risks.

  • They ended Day 4 at 21/0.
  • However, with 350 runs still to chase, the task ahead remains monumental.
  • To add to their challenge, weather interruptions are expected on Day 5, which could affect their progress or even India’s push for a win.

📊 Brief Scores

India: 471 & 364 (Pant 100 – 118, KL Rahul 137; Tongue 3/72, Carse 3/80)
England: 465 & 21/0 (Zak Crawley 12*, Ben Duckett 9*)
Target: 371