India vs South Africa - "Everybody Was Abusing Me...": KL Rahul Hits Out After Slamming Century

Indian middle-order batter KL Rahul on Wednesday opened up on outside noise and social media scrutiny following a Test comeback hundred against South Africa in Centurion. Rahul was lauded for his efforts in tough batting conditions in the first innings, notching his eighth Test century (101 in 137 balls, with 14 fours and four sixes) in a total of just 245. Virat Kohli's 38 was the next best for the tourists, who were bowled out in the first session of day two.

In reply, the Proteas have snuck to a first-innings lead, off the back of a storming hundred from Dean Elgar (140*), who intends to finish his Test career on a high note. SA was 256/5 at the end of day two, leading by 11 runs.

Speaking after play on day two, Rahul responded to questions regarding criticism of his game, most notably from the general public, who hit out at the batter for his lack of form and aggression at times, particularly in shorter formats.

"As a person, as a cricketer, as an individual, you are challenged each day, each moment. Social media is a pressure," said KL as quoted by ICC.

"Today I have scored a hundred so people are singing praises. Three, or four months ago, everybody was abusing me. It is part of the game, but I cannot say it does not affect you. It does," he said.

"The sooner you realise that staying away from it is good for your game and your mindset the better it is," he concluded his point.

Rahul moved things along for the tourists, striking at 73.72 as the team travelled at 3.62 runs per over, a counter to the trying conditions and the rain that hovered throughout the two opening days.

Rahul admits it was a good time to apply things he has worked on in the background during spells away from the middle, particularly when injured