In a display of sheer class and composure, KL Rahul etched his name into cricket history with an unbeaten century against New Zealand. The elegant right-hander’s masterful knock not only rescued India from a precarious position but also propelled the team to a commanding total on a challenging pitch.
Rahul walked in when India were wobbling at 40 for 3, losing early wickets to the probing swing of New Zealand’s pace attack. Undeterred, he built partnerships with the middle order, rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries with silky drives and lofted covers. His 112 not out came off 128 balls, adorned with 12 fours and 2 sixes, showcasing vintage Rahul at his imperious best.
This wasn’t just any hundred. It marked Rahul as the first Indian batter to score an unbeaten century in the fourth innings of a Test match while chasing a target. The historic moment unfolded on the final day, with India needing 200-plus to win. Rahul’s grit turned the tide, guiding the team home with overs to spare.
Captain Rohit Sharma praised Rahul’s maturity, saying, ‘He’s our rock in crunch situations.’ Fans erupted in joy as Rahul reached his ton with a classic straight drive. This innings adds another feather to his cap, following his previous heroics in Sydney and Lord’s.
New Zealand’s bowlers toiled hard, but Rahul’s technique neutralized their threat. As India clinched a thrilling victory, Rahul’s knock stands as a testament to his evolution from a talented prospect to a bona fide match-winner. Cricket lovers worldwide are already buzzing about his next big performance.