Remopark | Urban Affairs, Timely Stories & Editorial Views

At Headingley, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant's spectacular centuries powered India to a formidable 364 in their second innings, setting England a challenging 371-run target. Pant's twin centuries etched his name in history, while Rahul's composed innings anchored the batting display. Despite a late collapse, India's dominant performance has set the stage for a thrilling final day.

Rishabh Pant achieved a significant milestone, securing his 150th Test catch, joining Indian wicketkeeping legends. He celebrated his comeback with a brilliant 134, marking his seventh Test century, highlighted by a memorable somersault. Pant's explosive batting and charismatic presence continue to solidify his role as a key match-winner for India.

Sourav Ganguly revealed VVS Laxman's disappointment after being excluded from India's 2003 World Cup squad, leading to a three-month silence between them. Ganguly admitted the decision, favouring Dinesh Mongia, caused a rift, despite Laxman's ODI record. Although controversial, Laxman returned post-World Cup, proving his value in subsequent series, and Ganguly emphasized the decision wasn't personal, as India reached the final.

Sourav Ganguly believes it will be challenging for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to maintain fitness and secure spots in India's 2027 ODI World Cup squad, considering their age and limited ODI opportunities. Ganguly acknowledged Kohli's irreplaceable caliber and praised Yuvraj Singh's exceptional white-ball performance, regretting his limited Test opportunities due to a strong batting lineup.

Shubman Gill's captaincy debut at Headingley, marked by an unbeaten century, has brought back memories of his verbal sparring with Jonny Bairstow during the 2024 India-England series. The resurfaced clip shows a sharp exchange between the two, adding spice to the ongoing series where Gill's leadership and batting acumen signal a confident start for India.

Rishabh Pant achieved a milestone at Headingley. He is now the fastest Asian wicketkeeper-batter to score 3000 Test runs. Pant reached this feat in his 76th innings. He surpassed legends like MS Dhoni and Kumar Sangakkara. Pant's aggressive batting style has made him a global favorite. He also scored a quick 65* on Day 1.

Shubman Gill marked his Test captaincy debut with a remarkable century against England at Headingley, becoming the fourth Indian to achieve this feat. His composed innings, featuring elegant strokeplay and confident footwork, anchored India's innings on the opening day. Gill's leadership debut signals a promising new era for Indian cricket, blending composure and class.

June 20th continues to be a significant date for Indian Test debuts as Sai Sudharsan received his Test Cap No. 317 against England at Headingley. Following in the footsteps of Dravid, Ganguly, and Kohli, Sudharsan, the IPL 2025 Orange Cap winner, steps into a rebuilding Indian side at No. 3.

Following Virat Kohli's retirement, Shubman Gill is set to bat at No. 4, a decision endorsed by coach Gambhir and Pant. Vengsarkar, who previously occupied the same position, advises Gill to adjust his bat position for straighter play.