Cricket analyst Anil Kumble believes that KL Rahul is invariably subjected to undue pressure. However, Kumble suggests that Rahul’s recent innings against Australia during the Champions Trophy semi-final in Dubai should significantly boost his confidence.
During the chase of 265 runs, Rahul came in to bat at number 6 after Axar Patel was dismissed. Prior to this, Axar Patel and Virat Kohli had formed a partnership of 44 runs from 52 balls for the fourth wicket. Despite this, India still required 87 runs from 90 balls. Rahul then built crucial partnerships with both Kohli and Hardik Pandya, successfully guiding India to victory with an undefeated score of 42 runs from 34 balls.
On ESPNcricinfo Match Day, Kumble commented, ‘Rahul ideally should have batted before Axar Patel. While Axar contributed well by partnering with Virat Kohli, KL Rahul’s presence at that stage could have been more impactful. Rahul has the ability to ensure the team crosses the finish line once he gets past a score of 30. He consistently demonstrates this capability. Although he missed an opportunity in the previous match against New Zealand, Rahul is undoubtedly a player of high caliber. This innings will certainly instill a great deal of confidence in him.’
Kumble further added, ‘There is considerable pressure on him. When he performs well, it’s often seen as expected. However, even a single failure can lead to widespread criticism. He was under pressure, even concerning his wicket-keeping in the last game. But today, he demonstrated his true potential.’
Following the match, Rahul mentioned he is ‘quite used to’ adapting to different batting positions. Sanjay Manjrekar, another expert on the panel with Kumble, offered a different perspective.
Manjrekar stated, ‘One might wonder if limited preparation time is actually beneficial for KL Rahul, as it pushes him to focus purely on attacking. Today, he seemed determined to take on the responsibility of attacking. It’s when he plays aggressively that he truly showcases his abilities. I’ve rarely seen KL Rahul play an innings where he steadily builds with singles and doubles, constructing a century to win the game, in the manner Virat Kohli often does. Therefore, batting lower down the order might suit his natural game.’
Manjrekar concluded, ‘I am very pleased for him. He appears to be a very sensitive player, and every mistake or batting failure seems to weigh heavily on his mind. While I don’t know him personally as well as Anil does, he comes across as a genuinely nice individual, and India clearly wants him in the playing XI. This kind of innings is very valuable, and at the end of the game, he seemed genuinely happy.’
