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Nasser Hussain Backs KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant to Seal Lord’s Test for India
By CricShots - Jul 14, 2025 1:22 pm
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As the gripping Lord’s Test edges toward a dramatic finale, former England captain Nasser Hussain has thrown his weight behind India, tipping them to script a memorable win on the fifth and final day. With 135 runs still to get and six wickets in hand, India finds themselves in a tense position, but Hussain believes the duo of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant can steer the visitors home.

KL Rahul
KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant

India ended Day 4 on 58 for 4, chasing 193 after a day filled with drama and 14 wickets. The late dismissals of skipper Shubman Gill and nightwatchman Akash Deep have made things more challenging, but Rahul remains unbeaten on 33. He is expected to be joined by the ever-entertaining Rishabh Pant when play resumes on Monday.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Nasser Hussain lauded both Rahul and Pant, calling them the key to India’s chase. “He’s done it in Australia, he won’t bottle it,” Hussain said of Pant. “He thrives on pressure. Then you’ve got Mr. Cool, KL Rahul — calm, calculated, and in terrific form. And Mr. Chaos, Rishabh Pant — but with a plan. England must break that partnership early.”

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While acknowledging the threat posed by England’s attack on a pitch showing variable bounce and seam movement, Hussain slightly leaned towards India, pegging the odds at 52-48 in their favour — if they survive the early burst.

Nasser Hussain
Nasser Hussain

“England have to hit the cracks hard and make use of that newer ball. Unless Pant takes off, these runs won’t come easy,” he noted. With a packed crowd expected — including a vocal Indian contingent — Hussain stressed that England’s bowlers must remain composed. “It’s going to be about handling the atmosphere and emotions.”

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He also pointed to key turning points that may be dissected in hindsight — Harry Brook’s reckless sweep, or India’s surprising decision to change the second new ball early in England’s first innings. “If England win, Brook’s shot is forgotten. If they lose, it’s a headline. Likewise, with India’s ball change.”

Now, with Rahul’s composure and Pant’s unpredictability poised to define the day, the Lord’s Test is primed for a classic finish — nerve-wracking, balanced on a knife’s edge, and utterly fitting for the historic venue.