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Anil Kumble left stunned as KL Rahul falls early in 2nd innings on day 4 of Guwahati Test

Sakshi Sharma

KL Rahul (Source: AFP)KL Rahul (Source: AFP)

A brief moment that featured Anil Kumble on the broadcast late on Day 4 of the Guwahati Test has become one of the most widely shared clips from the match. As India’s second innings began to crumble in their massive chase of 549 runs against South Africa, KL Rahul’s early dismissal triggered a reaction from Kumble that quickly went viral online.

Rahul, opening the innings for India on Tuesday (November 25), lasted 29 balls and scored only six runs before he was removed by off-spinner Simon Harmer. On the second ball of the 10th over, Harmer bowled a superb delivery that dipped sharply and beat KL Rahul’s defence completely. The shot attempted by the star opener did not match the ball’s quality, and he had no chance to recover.

Anil Kumble left disappointed as KL Rahul falls early

Anil Kumble, who was on Hindi commentary duty for Star Sports at the time, looked visibly upset the moment Rahul walked back. His expression, captured only seconds after the wicket—reflected disbelief and disappointment.

Anil Kumble's reaction after KL Rahul wicket (Source:@RarshitHana,x.com)Anil Kumble's reaction after KL Rahul wicket (Source:@RarshitHana,x.com)

India was already under pressure when KL Rahul was dismissed. Before Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal had been dismissed for 13, and the hosts were losing control rapidly as Day 4 drew to a close.

Kumble analysed KL Rahul's mistake

Speaking after the day’s play, Kumble analysed Rahul’s dismissal in detail and questioned the batter’s technique on a fourth-day pitch. He praised Harmer’s delivery but felt Rahul could have approached it better.

“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 said.


“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," he added.

Kumble added that experienced batters usually adjust their guard on a turning pitch to protect the off-stump, but KL Rahul’s stance made it difficult for him to defend the ball.