KL Rahul’s brief stay at the crease during India’s second innings in the Guwahati Test against South Africa has become a major talking point, especially due to Anil Kumble’s visible frustration on live commentary. Chasing a massive 549, Rahul was trusted to provide a solid foundation at the top, but the experienced opener could only score 6 runs from 29 deliveries before being dismissed by Simon Harmer.
The off-spinner produced a brilliant delivery on the second ball of the 10th over that completely beat Rahul, leaving him no chance to recover. Kumble, who was on Hindi commentary duty for Star Sports, appeared clearly displeased with the manner of Rahul’s dismissal, and the clip of his reaction quickly started circulating online.
Anil Kumble reaction after KL Rahul wicket 😳 pic.twitter.com/Hm5N2h55UJ
— 𝘚𝘏𝘌𝘙𝘈 𝟿𝟿𝟿 (@RarshitHana) November 25, 2025
Breakdown Of Rahul’s Dismissal And Technical Concerns
After the dismissal, Anil Kumble later analysed the moment and did not hold back from pointing out the technical flaws. He acknowledged the excellence of Harmer’s ball but emphasised that Rahul’s technique could have been better in that situation. Kumble stated, “I think it was a fantastic delivery by Simon, no doubt. But KL went for the shot without getting to the pitch of the ball. Because of the revolutions Simon Harmer put on the ball, he got a bit of dip, and the line was perfect.”
He went on to explain how experienced batters manage similar conditions, adding, “Generally, on a fourth- or fifth-day pitch with enough rough, you tend to cover all three stumps because LBW is unlikely from that angle—the impact is usually outside off-stump. That’s why I was a bit surprised. KL Rahul is experienced. He did take centre-stump guard, but his off-stump was still visible.” According to Kumble, Rahul’s stance left him vulnerable on a turning track, which forced him into a difficult position while attempting the shot.
A Missed Opportunity For Rahul Amid India’s Struggle
Kumble further elaborated on what KL Rahul could have ideally done to avoid such a mistake, saying, “Ideally, if you stand on middle-and-off, you can reach the ball comfortably or defend it. But standing on middle-and-leg exposes the off-stump and forces you to reach for the ball.”
“Maybe it was a lapse in concentration. He thought it was drivable, but the ball dipped, credit to Harmer. He looked to drive and ended up falling to a perfect off-spinner’s dismissal.” Rahul’s wicket was India’s second blow of the innings, after Marco Jansen had earlier removed Yashasvi Jaiswal for 13. With India facing a steep chase, Rahul’s failure added pressure on an already struggling batting lineup, disappointing both fans and the team management.
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