England are set for a titanic challenge on the fifth and final day of the opening Test match against India, part of the much-anticipated Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. With a daunting target of 371 runs to chase, England ended Day 4 at 21 without loss, laying the groundwork for what could be a historic comeback or a resilient Indian triumph.
The Test match at Headingley has lived up to its billing, showcasing vintage five-day drama, momentum swings, and individual brilliance. After both sides produced near-identical first innings—India posting 471 and England replying with 465—the match stood finely poised before India’s second innings unfolded.
India batted with determination on Day 4, finishing at 364 in their second innings. KL Rahul led the charge with a sublime 137, showing exceptional composure against disciplined England bowling. Rahul, who emphasized the difficulty of switching formats during a chat with broadcaster Deep Dasgupta, credited his preparation with the India A squad for his form. He noted that familiarizing himself with the red ball under English conditions was crucial and that his experience in previous England tours helped him adapt quickly.
Rishabh Pant proved to be the perfect foil to Rahul’s calm, blasting an electrifying 118 filled with innovative strokeplay. The Rahul-Pant partnership added 195 runs, shifting momentum India’s way. England’s bowlers toiled hard, and while Josh Tongue and Ben Stokes found occasional swing and bounce, wickets proved hard to come by until late in the innings. Tongue’s spectacular burst—taking three wickets in four balls—rattled India’s lower order, bundling them out quickly after they had reached a commanding 333 for 4.
England’s response began with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett cautiously seeing off a fiery Jasprit Bumrah spell under fading light. Despite India’s insistence on squeezing in one last over, umpires called it a day as the clock edged past 6:30 PM local time.
This Test has mirrored a classic duel, with both England and India securing four sessions each, and four hanging in the balance. From a strategic perspective, England’s ability to handle India’s bowling on a deteriorating pitch on Day 5 will be crucial. Rahul hinted at subcontinental-like cracks opening up on the surface, warning that batting would not be as straightforward.
India will rely heavily on Bumrah to lead the attack, though support from other bowlers like Siraj will be vital. England, on the other hand, will need resilience, especially if weather delays intrude—rain is expected in the morning and afternoon sessions.
With all three results possible—an England win, an Indian victory, or a draw—this first Test between England and India has all the ingredients of an unforgettable classic. A gripping final day awaits.