Practice makes perfect! KL Rahul justifies move to play India A game with century before IND vs ENG Tests

KL Rahul’s move to play the India A vs England Lions has paid dividends. Opening the batting in the 2nd unofficial Test, KL Rahul stroked a fine century to put the visitors on top in Northampton. The India opener travelled to England after being knocked out of IPL 2025 and made the most of the opportunity against an England Lions attack.

KL Rahul stars in tour match, smashes 100

KL Rahul showcased his value as the most experienced Indian batter in the second India A vs England Lions game in Northampton. The 33-year-old led the charge with a stunning century, allaying concerns ahead of the IND vs ENG Tests. After losing Yashasvi Jaiswal and Abhimanyu Easwaran quickly, Rahul held fort with long time state partner Karun Nair.

Rahul was watchful, playing the ball on merit, building his innings with patience. With Chris Woakes in good form, the Indian opener was assured on his strokeplay. At the Lunch break, Rahul had scored only 26 off 58 balls, batting out time with little show of intent.

Post Lunch, the Karnataka star scored a little more freely, picking on loose deliveries. Rahul lost Karun Nair post lunch but went about his work, stitching a vital partnership with vice-captain Dhruv Jurel. He reached his half-century in 102 balls. He launched Farhan Ahmed over the ropes for a maximum, and was eventually unbeaten on 93 at Tea. Rahul scored 42 runs in the last 29 deliveries before the break, showcasing his ability to switch gears with ease.

Onus on Rahul in India vs England series

Rahul is the most experienced batter in the Indian squad after the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He will slot at the top of the order with Yashasvi Jaiswal and will have big boots to fill in the new WTC Cycle. The 33-year-old was India’s third-highest run-getter on the previous tour, including a century at Lord’s. He would hope to set the tone for India in the series, and repeat his heroics from 2021/22.