The second unofficial Test match between Australia A and India A at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) saw a bizarre dismissal of KL Rahul. The incident unfolded on Day 2, where Australian spinner Corey Rocchiccioli sent back Rahul for just 10.
KL Rahul’s dismissal raises eyebrows
In the 18th over of India’s second innings, right-arm off-spinner Rocchiccioli bowled a delivery that seemed destined to miss the leg stump. However, Rahul attempted to block the ball using his pads to avoid any possibility of an edge or dismissal. In a twist of fate, the ball ricocheted off Rahul’s left leg, traveled through his legs, and ultimately clipped the bails on the off stump. This unexpected trajectory left fans visibly disappointed, as Rahul didn’t even tried to play the ball.
Here is the video:
“Don’t know what he was thinking!”
Oops… that’s an astonishing leave by KL Rahul 😱 #AUSAvINDA pic.twitter.com/e4uDPH1dzz
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 8, 2024
Rahul’s latest dismissal further reflects his ongoing struggle with form. Earlier in the match, the right-handed batter was dismissed for 4 in the first innings, and his unfortunate wicket in the second essay adds to a series of low scores.
Also READ: Fans laud Dhruv Jurel’s fighting knock on Day 1 of the unofficial Test between India A and Australia A
India A’s last chance to level the series
By the end of Day 2, India A managed to score 73 runs but faced setbacks with five wickets down, leading Australia A by 11 runs. They now rely on wicketkeeper batter Dhruv Jurel, who remains not out on 19, and lower-order batter Nitish Reddy, unbeaten on 9, to extend their lead on Day 3. The match is on a knife-edge as India A battles to establish a defensible target.
With Australia A holding a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, this second unofficial Test is a must-win for India A to avoid a series loss. Australia’s victory in the first game has put India under pressure, making the final days of this encounter critical.