Indian opening batsman KL Rahul experienced a frightening moment on Day 4 of the second Test against West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. A searing nip-backer from bowler Jayden Seales, traveling at nearly 134 kilometers per hour, struck Rahul squarely on his protective gear. The powerful impact sent the star cricketer collapsing to the pitch, grimacing and clutching himself in visible agony.
The unfortunate incident took place on the second ball of the third over, marking Rahul’s fifth delivery of his innings. The right-handed batsman was milliseconds late, missing the line of the incoming ball, which bypassed his inside edge and hit flush on his groin. Without hesitation, Rahul dropped his bat, removed his helmet, and fell to the ground in severe discomfort.
Medical personnel promptly rushed to his side, attending to him for several minutes. Demonstrating remarkable fortitude and an unyielding spirit, Rahul eventually rose to his feet and bravely continued batting. He ultimately remained unbeaten on 25 runs from 54 balls as stumps were drawn for the day.
Alongside Rahul, B Sai Sudharsan also delivered a solid performance, finishing the day unbeaten on 30. India concluded Day 4 at 63/1 in 18 overs, with a modest target of 121 runs to chase. Despite an early dismissal for Yashasvi Jaiswal, the resilient partnership between Rahul and Sudharsan ensured India was well-positioned to chase down the remaining 58 runs on Day 5 and complete a convincing 2-0 series sweep.
The pitch at Arun Jaitley Stadium offered slow bounce and some turn, adding an extra layer of challenge. However, both Indian batsmen adapted skillfully, settling into a consistent rhythm and expertly handling both pace and spin without any further complications.
Even with a small target looming, Day 4 served as a potent reminder that Test cricket frequently produces unexpected moments and tough challenges for players.
Earlier in the game, West Indies’ Justin Greaves and Jayden Seales had tested India’s patience with a stubborn batting display. Seales managed to survive two difficult catching opportunities, dropped by KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel. Greaves went on to score a half-century, but India’s decision to bring back Jasprit Bumrah proved decisive. Bumrah dismissed Seales, who flicked the ball directly to deep square leg, ending a vital last-wicket partnership and concluding West Indies’ spirited innings.
Despite the visitors’ commendable resistance, their efforts were ultimately insufficient to prevent India from being on the brink of a comfortable victory. Day 5 is widely anticipated to be a mere formality in securing the series win for India.