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KL, Jaiswal Break 39-Year-Old Record With Solid Opening Stand In Headingley Test

Debashis Sarangi

Rahul, Jaiswal formed a superb stand for 1st wicket [Source: AP]Rahul, Jaiswal formed a superb stand for 1st wicket [Source: AP]

In a remarkable achievement, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul have become the most successful opening pair for India in Tests at Headingley. The stylish batting duo broke the 39-year-old record held by the legendary pair of Sunil Gavaskar and Kris Srikkanth. 

KL, Jaiswal Record India’s Highest Opening Stand In Leeds

After England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and opted to bowl first, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal gave India a cautious start with the bat. Both players carefully negotiated the challenging deliveries while capitalising on the slightest error from the Englishmen. 

Thus, they became the first-ever pair after Gavaskar and Srikkanth to register a fifty-plus opening stand for India in a Test match at Headingley. The iconic pair of Gavaskar and Srikkanth held the elusive record for 39 long years, having formed a 64-run stand for the first wicket at the venue way back in 1986. 

Highest Opening Stands For India Against England In Tests At Headingley

  • Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul - 87*
  • Sunil Gavaskar, Kris Srikkanth- 64
  • Farokh Engineer, Ramesh Saxena - 39
  • KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma - 34
  • DK Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy - 18

Jaiswal and Rahul could become the first-ever Indian pair to register a hundred-run opening stand at Headingley. Apart from the dynamic duo, the Gavaskar-Srikkanth pair is the only other one to record a half-century opening partnership in Tests that India have played in Leeds over the years. 

Talking about the game, Rahul and Jaiswal's stoic technique and elegant stroke play have ensured a formidable start for the Indian side. On a deck where the fast bowlers have found enough assistance, the Indian openers have frustrated the hosts with dodged resistance and bold shots.

As of writing, India were 87 for none, with Jaiswal and Rahul batting on 37* and 42*, respectively.