NEW DELHI: KL Rahul‘s struggles with form continued during India A’s second unofficial Test against Australia A at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with the Indian opener drawing sharp criticism following a bizarre dismissal. With just weeks left before the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Rahul’s failure to capitalize on a key opportunity has ignited a flurry of reactions on social media.
Drafted into the India A side to regain form ahead of the series, Rahul had an underwhelming outing in both innings. After scoring just 4 in the first innings as part of India A’s early collapse, he had a chance to redeem himself in the second innings. However, his dismissal in a peculiar fashion left fans and critics stunned.
Facing spinner Corey Rocchiccioli in the 18th over, Rahul, who had already played 43 deliveries, chose not to offer a shot to a tossed-up delivery that turned to the middle stump. He padded the ball away, but it deflected off his pad and onto the stumps, resulting in his dismissal for 10 off 44 balls. Rahul appeared to misjudge the ball’s trajectory, expecting it to spin down the leg side, only for it to sneak through his legs and dislodge the bails. Shaking his head in frustration, Rahul walked back to the pavilion, his dismissal leaving fans speechless.
The uncharacteristic dismissal has further amplified concerns over Rahul’s form ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Social media exploded with reactions, with many fans expressing frustration at the batter’s continued vulnerability to spin and his lack of confidence.
Some users sarcastically commented, “Even your haters are feeling sad for you now,” while others described it an “innovates new ways to throw wicket.”
Rahul, who has faced intense scrutiny over his performances in recent months, was hoping to use the unofficial Test series as a platform to regain form. However, this latest setback has sparked doubts about his readiness for the upcoming Test series against Australia.
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