The first Test saw India’s batting lineup crumble in the first innings, being bowled out for a mere 46 runs—India’s lowest-ever score in Test cricket. While some of the batters made amends in the second innings with improved performances, KL Rahul’s struggles continued, as he failed to make an impact in both innings. After being dismissed for a six-ball duck in the first innings, Rahul could only muster 12 runs from 16 balls in the second innings, despite playing on his home ground.
Following KL Rahul’s poor showing in Bengaluru, there have been increasing calls for him to be dropped from the Test team. His twin failures have led to speculation that Shubman Gill, who is set to return for the second Test in Pune, could replace Rahul in the playing XI. Gill’s return, coupled with Rahul’s lack of form, raises the question of whether it’s fair to drop Rahul based on his performance in a single Test.
Shubman Gill, who has been one of India’s most promising young batters, could be the preferred choice to replace Rahul at the top of the order. Gill has shown consistency across formats and could be seen as a better option for the team, especially with India needing a strong start to stay competitive in the series. Whether or not the team management decides to drop Rahul for the second Test will likely depend on factors such as form, confidence, and team balance.
As India prepares for the second Test in Pune, all eyes will be on the selection choices and how the team responds after their defeat in the opening match. With the series on the line, the team will need a collective effort from both the batting and bowling units to stay in the contest and challenge New Zealand.
