India A started strongly in the second unofficial Test against England Lions at Northampton, thanks largely to a composed and elegant century from KL Rahul, marking a significant return to red-ball cricket after injury concerns. Rahul’s innings was crucial not only for India A’s match position but also encouraging ahead of India’s upcoming five-match Test series in England.
Rahul began cautiously, showing great discipline against the fresh England Lions pace attack under overcast conditions, reaching his fifty off 102 balls. Once set, he shifted gears smoothly into a controlled attacking mode, showcasing his trademark cover drives and a variety of crisp shots to reach his century off 151 balls.
India A had an early hiccup, losing Yashasvi Jaiswal and Abhimanyu Easwaran cheaply, both trapped LBW by Chris Woakes in the opening 11 overs. Rahul then steadied the innings, forging an 86-run partnership with Karun Nair, who had been in excellent form with a double century in the first Test but was also dismissed LBW by Woakes.
Next, Rahul built on that foundation with Dhruv Jurel, combining for a crucial 121 runs that kept India A firmly in control during the middle session. After Rahul’s eventual dismissal, Nitish Kumar Reddy contributed a useful 34 runs, helping India A close Day 1 in a strong position.
Woakes was the standout bowler for England Lions with figures of 3 for 50, supported by George Hill’s two wickets. India A will resume on Day 2 with Tanush Kotian and Anshul Kamboj at the crease, looking to build further on this solid start.
