KL Rahul, one of India’s most reliable Test openers, reached a landmark in his career on Saturday, surpassing 4,000 runs in the longest format. The achievement came in India’s first Test against South Africa at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, a ground that has witnessed countless historic moments in cricket history.
Rahul walked in after the drinks interval on the second morning and showcased his trademark calmness at the crease. His innings of 39 from 119 balls, including four boundaries and a six, may not have been massive, but it proved sufficient to take him past the 4,000-run milestone—a significant testament to his consistency and longevity.
With 66 Tests and 115 innings under his belt, Rahul now boasts 4,024 runs at an average of 36.58. His record includes 11 centuries and 20 half-centuries, with a highest score of 199, narrowly missing a double century. His form this year has been outstanding, scoring 784 runs in nine Tests at an average above 52, including three centuries. Rahul’s memorable England tour, with 532 runs in five matches and two centuries, stands out as a career highlight. His recent home hundred in Ahmedabad ended a nine-year wait for a Test century in India, underlining his resilience and class.
At lunch on day two, India were 138 for 4, with Jadeja unbeaten on 11 and Dhruv Jurel at the other end. Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar could not build on their starts, scoring 27 and 29, respectively. India’s skipper, Shubman Gill, had to retire hurt after injuring his neck while attempting a sweep shot—a worrying development ahead of a crucial Test series.
South Africa’s first innings total of 159, bolstered by a 50-run opening partnership between Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton, initially put India under pressure. However, India’s pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah (5/27) and Mohammed Siraj (2/47) wrested control, leaving the home side in a favourable position.
KL Rahul’s 4,000-run landmark is a testament to his role as a backbone of India’s Test batting line-up. His consistency across different conditions, his ability to perform under pressure, and his elegant strokeplay have made him one of the most dependable batsmen in world cricket today.