Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has issued a strong warning regarding KL Rahul’s position in the Test squad, stressing that the team management may not persist with him much longer if his inconsistent run continues.
Rahul endured a disappointing performance in the recently concluded two-match Test series against South Africa, finishing with only 68 runs from four innings, averaging 17, with a highest score of 39. His struggle came at a time when India needed senior players to step up, particularly in the absence of injured opener Shubman Gill.
Rahul had previously impressed with solid performances in England and against the West Indies at home, but his inability to replicate that form against South Africa contributed to India’s 0–2 whitewash.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Uthappa did not mince words:
“Even as a senior pro, it leaves him in a position of weakness… One more series like this and they will run out of patience with him. Performing for his own spot is now important for his future in Test cricket.”
Uthappa also acknowledged the instability Rahul has faced in recent years, including constant changes in batting positions and team roles. He praised Rahul for managing to accumulate decent numbers despite the lack of continuity, but stressed that the inconsistency cannot continue forever.
Despite playing 67 Test matches, Rahul’s career average remains just above 35—a statistic that experts believe does not reflect the calibre expected from a senior batter of his experience. The poor conversion of starts into match-defining scores continues to damage his long-term prospects.
With India experiencing one of its most challenging phases in Test cricket and entering a leadership transition under Shubman Gill, selectors are expected to demand greater stability from experienced players. The upcoming series may therefore be critical in determining Rahul’s future in the Test side as India seeks performance and reliability from its remaining senior core.
