Josh Tongue bullish as England need 350 more runs in rain-hit final day of the first India Test

Josh Tongue has declared England’s intent loud and clear: they’re going for it. After wrapping up India’s second innings with a sensational three-wicket maiden, the young pacer insisted England were ready to chase down the 371-run target and secure a famous first Test victory at Headingley.

By stumps on day four, England had made it to 21 without loss, leaving 350 to get on what is forecast to be a rain-hit final day. The scale of the challenge is historic. No team has ever chased that many runs to win a Test in England since 1948. But Tongue, speaking after his standout performance, said the belief in the dressing room is unwavering.

“With our batting lineup, we can chase anything,” he said confidently. “We play a positive brand of cricket. That’s how we approach every game. It’s about absorbing the pressure and then putting it back on the opposition.”

England’s task, if completed, would surpass their 2019 Ashes miracle at the same venue when they chased 362 to win, with Ben Stokes’ unforgettable innings still fresh in many memories. But India, too, smell opportunity. KL Rahul, who anchored India’s innings with a masterful century, predicted a “blockbuster finish”, cautioning that England’s aggression could backfire.

“There’s definitely going to be a result,” Rahul said. “That’s what England want, and that gives us a great chance to take 10 wickets. This wicket doesn’t let you settle. I was out there for 247 balls and never felt fully in.”

Rahul’s knock, filled with precision and patience, stood in sharp contrast to the freewheeling, unpredictable brilliance of Rishabh Pant, who also notched a century. “Sometimes you just have to admire Pant,” Rahul said. “You scratch your head at some of his shots, but it works for him. He’s got his own method, and we just let him be Pant.”

Despite England’s confidence, Rahul remained wary of the surface. “It’s tricky,” he warned. “You never know what ball might misbehave. If we hit the right areas, we’ll create chances.”

The Headingley crowd is set for a thrilling finale, weather permitting. With memories of 2019 in the air and Bazball principles in full flow, England’s modern Test identity hinges on boldness, belief, and calculated risk.

Tongue, who’s impressed with both ball and attitude, seems to embody this philosophy. His three wickets in the space of six balls helped prevent India from stretching the lead even further, setting up what could be a historic chase.

“The mood in the camp is upbeat,” he said. “We’ve done it before. We back ourselves.”

Now, with 350 runs standing between England and glory, the stage is set. Rain may interrupt. The pitch may play tricks. But one thing’s certain: England aren’t playing for the draw.