Following India’s loss to New Zealand in the first Test at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, a gesture by KL Rahul has caught the attention of cricket fans across social media. After the match, Rahul was seen bowing down and touching the pitch. This moment led to widespread speculation, with many users wondering if it was his final Test match.
Since the Bengaluru ground has sentimental value for Rahul, being his home ground when he played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (2013-2016) and representing Karnataka in domestic cricket, the gesture was especially significant.
Social Media Reacts to Rahul’s Gesture
The viral clip of KL Rahul’s action quickly ignited a flood of reactions online. Several users speculated whether Rahul was signalling the end of his Test career, with one person commenting, “Was this his last Test match by any chance???” Another user chimed in, “He knows that it is his last test match.”
The emotion behind the gesture, coupled with Rahul’s performance in the match—scoring 0 and 12 in two innings—gave rise to further speculation that this could be his way of bidding farewell to Test cricket.
In all probabilities KL Rahul played his last test match today.
— Jay Shah (@Jay_sha_h) October 20, 2024
Go well in ODIs n T20Is 👍🏻
Thank you KL Rahul !!#INDvsNZ #KLRahul pic.twitter.com/Jzmoz7vbMW
Thank you KL Rahul #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/KocmIizp62
— DJAY (@djaywalebabu) October 20, 2024
New Zealand’s Historic Win in India
While Rahul’s gesture grabbed headlines, New Zealand’s performance was the main story. The visitors secured their first Test win in India in 36 years, guided by the steady partnership of Will Young and Rachin Ravindra. Chasing a modest target of 107, New Zealand stumbled early with the dismissals of captain Tom Latham and Devon Conway. However, Young and Ravindra’s 75-run stand saw them through to an eight-wicket victory.
Ravindra, named player of the match for his first-innings century, showcased his skills with six boundaries in his 46-ball innings. This win marked New Zealand’s third Test triumph on Indian soil, following victories in 1969 and 1988.
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