KL Rahul Announces Test Retirement? Out-of-Form Batter’s Pitch-Touch Gesture Sparks Speculation

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Read Original Content: KL Rahul Announces Test Retirement? Out-of-Form Batter’s Pitch-Touch Gesture Sparks Speculation

The opening Test between India and New Zealand at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium ended on a disappointing note for India, suffering a rare eight-wicket defeat. Fans believe this might mark the end of KL Rahul’s Test career, as the batter struggled to deliver once again at his home ground.

KL Rahul failed to make an impact in both innings. In the first innings, the right-hander was dismissed for a six-ball duck. His second attempt was equally underwhelming, scoring just 12 runs off 16 balls before getting dismissed by William O’Rourke, which triggered India’s collapse.

India Struggles with Batting Woes

Despite managing a lead of 106 runs in their second innings, India’s batting lineup faltered, collapsing to 46 all-out—its lowest Test score at home. Rahul’s inability to build a crucial partnership added to the team’s woes. Reports suggest he was already under pressure, with team management expecting a turnaround or contemplating changes.

Meanwhile, a viral clip circulating on social media shows Rahul touching the Bengaluru pitch after the game, a gesture many interpreted as him taking blessings. This fueled speculation among fans that the Test could be his last outing in whites.

Watch the video here: 

Sarfaraz Khan, Shubman Gill Likely to Replace KL Rahul

KL Rahul’s lean patch extends beyond this match, as he has struggled in recent Test appearances. His only fifty in India’s previous series came against Bangladesh, and earlier this year, he managed just a single century in South Africa and another fifty against England. Apart from these few contributions, his bat has been largely silent.

With India looking to bounce back in the second Test starting October 24 in Pune, changes in the lineup are likely. Shubman Gill is set to return, and the in-form Sarfaraz Khan may replace Rahul, who could be sent back to play the Ranji Trophy to regain his form.

Read Original Content: KL Rahul Announces Test Retirement? Out-of-Form Batter’s Pitch-Touch Gesture Sparks Speculation

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