We'll give ourselves the best chance, Says KL Rahul

India opener KL Rahul said that the team is confident of grabbing the chance to bowl England out and take the series 1-0 on the final day of the first Test. The match enters its final day on Tuesday at Headingley, as it's still finely poised.

India set England a tough target of 371 runs on Monday after they scored 364 in their second innings. England had a good start to their pursuit, with openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley cutting the deficit by 21 runs before the stumps.

Blockbuster finish pending tomorrow. There will surely be a outcome. That is what England have said in the open and it gives us the chance to bag 10 wickets," Rahul stated in the end-of-day press conference. His 137-run knock, joined by Rishabh Pant's bold 118, rescued India from initial troubles and set up an impressive total. The duo combined to score 195 runs for the fourth wicket.

Rahul pointed out that the pitch was offering challenges and may further deteriorate on the last day, which could benefit India's bowlers.
"Today was a tricky wicket. Tomorrow it might break even more. We'll give ourselves the best chance to pick up the 10 wickets," he said.

Though being in a strong position, Rahul conceded that India had set a bigger target for themselves.
"There was a bit of discussion at tea time about how much we require, or give them (England) a few overs to bat and get a few wickets. In principle, we would have liked around 40 more runs," he further said.

India's expectations of a better total were dashed by a lower-order meltdown. Going from 333/5 to 364 all out, three wickets for nothing and the contribution of little from Karun Nair and Shardul Thakur.

Rahul also praised Pant's unique batting style, which gave much-needed momentum.
You just stand there and marvel and sometimes scratch your head over the shots that he plays. He has his own way of playing. He loves his game. He has a style that none of us will comprehend in this room. Just let him be Rishabh Pant," Rahul said while reminiscing about Pant's calm yet sharp 118 off 140 balls.

At the English end, pacer Josh Tongue, who took 3/72 that included major lower-order wickets, insisted that the side was intent on going for a win and not playing out for a draw.

“Go for the chase tomorrow, that's the messaging in the dressing room. There's no reason we can't chase it down. Hopefully we won't be in a situation to play out for a draw. See where we are at lunch and calculate,” Tongue said, emphasizing the team’s positive intent.

With all results still possible, the final day promises high drama at Headingley as both sides eye a crucial series lead.