How Kohli and AB de Villiers revived KL Rahul's journey?
The Indian cricket team suffered its worst series defeat in 31 years after New Zealand defeated India in the third ODI at Mount Maunganui. While the shortcomings of Kohli & Co. were fairly exposed in the series, KL Rahul's form was one of the biggest positives. His childhood coach Samuel Jayaj has credited Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers for his transformation. Here's more.
Virat always promoted Rahul's talent
"I would give the credit to ABD and Virat. ABD understands him better because he is also a wicket-keeper-batsman. Virat showed confidence in him. Virat knew how talented Rahul is," Jayaj was quoted as saying to TOI.
Rahul couldn't make the most of his early stint
The evolution of KL Rahul hasn't been as seamless as it reflects these days. Although the Karnataka batsman was never bereft of talent at the international level, he couldn't do justice to it. Even after a terrific IPL season in 2018, Rahul lacked runs in T20Is. Besides, he didn't get much opportunities in ODIs. He also wasted plenty of chances in Test cricket.
His transformation in limited-overs has been phenomenal
Rahul has amassed 922 runs in 19 ODIs at an average of 54.33 since January 2019. He was also the second highest run-scorer in the New Zealand ODI series, having scored 204 runs. The right-handed batsman has replicated his consistency in T20Is as well. He was adjudged the Player of the Series for scoring most number of runs, prior to the ODIs.
Rahul saw his positions change, before getting the number five
Rahul batted at number three in the first ODI against Australia last month. In the next game, he was slotted in at number five after Rishabh Pant was concussed. In the third game, he opened the innings. He batted at number five in the ODIs against New Zealand. Rahul has now struck one ton and two fifties batting at number five this year.
India are persisting with Rahul as the wicket-keeper
Rishabh Pant untimely concussion not only ruled him out of the limited-overs format, but also opened gates for KL Rahul. Indian skipper Kohli himself admitted that Rahul's efficiency behind the stumps brings out a good balance in the team. His all-round contribution in the Indian cricket team has made the pundits draw comparisons with veteran Rahul Dravid.
Wicket-keeping has helped Rahul's batting
"He was always a wicket-keeper. Wicket-keeping for India has come as a blessing in disguise for him. As a wicketkeeper you have to keep vigil on all 300 deliveries behind the wickets. Wicket-keeping has helped his batting," Jayaj stated.
