KL Rahul’s gritty half-century came to an abrupt end early on Day 4 of the second Test between India and England at Edgbaston, as Josh Tongue produced a peach of a delivery to clean him up and breathe new life into England’s bowling effort.

Resuming India’s second innings with a healthy lead, Rahul looked in complete control through most of the morning. The right-hander brought up his fifty off 78 balls, mixing solid defense with stylish strokeplay. It wasn’t without its nervy moments, a few edges flying past slips and some well-directed bouncers testing his technique, but Rahul showed composure under pressure and appeared set for a big score.

Partnering with skipper Shubman Gill after the early loss of Karun Nair, Rahul kept the scoreboard ticking and wore down the English attack. His timing was sharp, and he was particularly effective square of the wicket, unfurling several crisp drives and flicks. For India, his innings came at a crucial time, helping extend their lead beyond 300 and providing the foundation for a potentially match-defining total.

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Tongue’s First-Ball Stunner Ends Rahul’s Resistance, India Lose Third Wicket Early on Day 4

However, just when it seemed like Rahul had settled in for a long stay, Josh Tongue, brought into the attack after the drinks break, struck with his very first delivery of the day. It was an absolute jaffa full, fast, and cutting in late, and Rahul was caught on the crease. The ball snuck past his bat and pad, clattering into the middle stump. Rahul, who had just completed a fluent fifty, was left stunned as the bails flew off.

Rahul walked back for 50, a valuable knock but one that ended too soon for India’s liking. His dismissal left India at 126/3, with a lead of 306 runs. Rishabh Pant, known for his counter-attacking instincts, joined Gill at the crease.

With variable bounce starting to creep in and England fired up after the breakthrough, the Test has moved into an intriguing phase. Rahul’s wicket was a big moment,t and now, it’s up to India’s middle order to press on and build a lead that puts the game beyond England’s reach.