Robin Uthappa didn’t hold back while assessing KL Rahul’s recent Test outing against South Africa. The right-handed batter struggled in two matches, managing only 68 runs across four innings.

The experienced Rahul, expected to anchor the batting line-up, in Gill’s absence, couldn’t deliver when India needed stability. Gill missed the entire contest with a neck injury, putting extra responsibility on Rahul, who was in excellent touch in England and against the West Indies. But his form dipped drastically, and India ended up suffering a 0-2 clean sweep.

“Even as a senior member of the side, this puts him in a vulnerable spot. That’s why performing well to secure his own place becomes crucial, regardless of his experience. If he has another series like this one, which has been below par, their patience will run out,” Uthappa said.

He further noted that Rahul’s journey hasn’t been easy, highlighting the repeated tinkering with his role and batting order in the Test unit.

“Whatever the circumstances, KL has had to deal with inconsistency and constant shifts in his role in the Test side. For me, the fact that he has still put up these numbers despite being moved around so much is remarkable. He has gone through a lot in his Test career,” he added.

Rahul’s Test average, just over 35 despite 67 matches, continues to be viewed as underwhelming for a player of his experience. His latest struggles against South Africa, where he again failed to convert starts, have only deepened concerns about his future in the format.

With India slipping to a second home Test series defeat in 12 months, the selectors’ trust in KL Rahul is likely to take hit.