India, June 7 -- KL Rahul made a strong return to India colours with a century for India A against England Lions, staking his claim for a key role in the upcoming five-Test series against England. Rahul has been a regular for India in ODIs and Tests, and with a century in the tour match, he has all but sealed a spot in the XI when India take on England in the first Test in Headingley.

The star batter has long been a vital figure in India's red-ball setup, and his responsibilities - not just with the bat, but also with leadership - are likely to increase as India tour England under first-time captain, Shubman Gill.

Throughout his career across formats, Rahul has shunted between various positions in the batting order. Even during India's ...