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Delhi: On the first day of the only Test match being played between India and Afghanistan, the Afghanistan team made a mistake, the consequences of which it may have to suffer in the future. The visiting team had a golden opportunity to dismiss Indian opener KL Rahul at the beginning of the innings, but the decision of not taking review took away that opportunity.

Rahul’s shot increased doubt

This incident was seen on the first ball of the 11th over of the Indian innings. Fast bowler Ziaur Rehman Sharifi bowled a bouncy ball outside the off stump, on which KL Rahul tried to play a cut shot. The ball passed very close to the bat and reached the wicketkeeper. Afghanistan players made a strong appeal, but the on-field umpire declared the batsman not out.

Gurbaz had demanded review

After the umpire’s decision, discussion started among Afghanistan players about taking DRS. Wicketkeeper batsman Rehmanullah Gurbaz was confident that the ball had taken the edge of the bat and even advised captain Hashmatullah Shahidi to take a review. However, the captain decided not to take the review.

Rahul’s reaction changed the decision

During this entire incident, KL Rahul’s confidence also seemed to have an impact on Afghanistan’s decision. Rahul behaved as if there was no contact between the ball and the bat. Seeing his expression, even the Afghan players could not be completely convinced and ultimately lost the opportunity to take DRS.

Replays revealed the whole story

Shortly afterwards, when replays were shown on the big screen, Afghanistan’s disappointment increased. UltraEdge technology clearly showed that the ball had taken the edge of the bat. Had the review been taken at that time, KL Rahul might have had to return to the pavilion.

Graeme Swann praised Rahul’s ‘acting’

Former England off-spinner Graeme Swann, who was commenting on this interesting development, also gave a funny reaction. He said that KL Rahul confused Afghanistan with his body language and that was the reason why the opposition team backed out from taking the review.

Swann said during the commentary that Rahul acted brilliantly on this occasion and seeing his reaction the opposing team believed him. He also said jokingly that Rahul should get an Oscar award for this performance.

Batsman’s confidence became a topic of discussion

Swann further said that great batsmen are often not ready to consider themselves out until the last moment. KL Rahul also showed the same confidence and his strategy proved costly for Afghanistan.