Watch: KL Rahul's clever reaction helps him escape after Afghanistan skip review in IND vs AFG Test
KL Rahul received an early lifeline in the IND vs AFG one-off Test after Afghanistan declined a review despite a clear edge. Former England spinner Graeme Swann praised Rahul's calm body language that may have influenced the decision.
June 06, 2026:The Afghanistan cricket team missed a golden opportunity to dismiss KL Rahul during the opening session of the one-off Test against India. A communication breakdown within the fielding unit resulted in the visitors opting against a review, despite the Indian opener appearing to edge the ball.
Afghanistan Let a Crucial Chance Slip
The incident took place on the opening delivery of the 11th over, bowled by Ziaur Rahman Sharifi. The pacer delivered a short-of-a-length ball that tempted Rahul into an attempted cut shot. An audible noise accompanied the stroke, prompting an immediate and enthusiastic appeal from the Afghanistan fielders. However, the on-field umpire was unconvinced and turned down the appeal. With the Decision Review System (DRS) available, Afghanistan briefly discussed whether to challenge the decision. During the deliberation, Rahul remained remarkably composed at the crease, displaying no signs of concern. Television replays later revealed that the visitors had missed a genuine opportunity. UltraEdge technology showed a clear spike as the ball passed the edge of Rahul’s bat, confirming there was contact.
- KL Rahul edged a ball
- Afghanistan team started celebrating
- Rahul saw the umpire not reacting and immediately started acting nonchalant
- Afg didn't take the review because of his reaction 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/3LzK1ye0Tz https://t.co/FB7KmoyJ1I
— ` (@worshipVK) June 6, 2026
Graeme Swann Hails Rahul’s Composure
Rahul’s calm reaction drew praise from former England spinner Graeme Swann during the live broadcast. Swann suggested the Indian batter's body language may have influenced Afghanistan’s decision not to review.
“KL Rahul has played an absolute blinder here, because the captain and the keeper looked to him, and he shook his head. And they believed him. He should be put up for an Oscar for his acting there, KL Rahul. My hat's off to you, sir. Here comes the Oscar,” Swann said on air, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
The former England international also highlighted the mindset of top-order batters when facing close calls.
“True batters never believe they are out despite the evidence,” he added.
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi eventually chose not to review after wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai indicated he had not heard an edge. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, however, was seen urging his teammates to challenge the decision, but his recommendation was ultimately ignored.
Despite the fortunate reprieve, Rahul and India were unable to build a substantial opening partnership. Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed shortly afterwards for 24 off 32 balls, caught down the leg side off Saleem Safi. His wicket ended a 41-run opening stand, leaving India hoping Rahul could make the most of his early lifeline.