KL Rahul opens up on his batting order adaptability
What's the story
KL Rahul has been vocal about how comfortable and flexible he is with batting at different positions in the order.
The Indian cricketer, who helped book India's spot in the ICC Champions Trophy final on Tuesday, opened up about moving from a settled No. 5 to a new position at No. 6.
The move was made as part of a strategy to add variety to the team's batting ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Here's more.
Adaptability
Rahul's adaptability and preparation for new role
As per ESPNcricinfo, Rahul, who has kept an impressive average of 57.26 as a middle-order batter (position 4-7) since 2020, is now working on his boundary-hitting skills.
"I'm quite used to going up and down the order so I'm just happy getting a chance to play in the middle," he said to Star Sports after India's win.
This statement highlights his preparedness for this new challenge and dedication to work on his game further.
Uncertainty
Rahul's thoughts on batting order uncertainty
Addressing the uncertainty over his role in the team, Rahul said he has been batting at No. 5 since 2020 and people tend to forget that.
He said he has been performing consistently no matter the position and credited Rohit Sharma for his constant support throughout his career.
This statement shows Rahul's confidence as a versatile player who can adjust to different roles in the team.
Strategy
Rahul's strategy for navigating challenging pitches
In the semi-final match against Australia, Rahul encountered a slow pitch that assisted spin.
He opted to take calculated risks every over, particularly when Kohli was in control at the other end.
This strategic move paid off as he scored an unbeaten 42 off 34 balls, taking India into the final.
His performance emphasizes his ability to adapt and strategize according to the conditions of play.
Information
KL Rahul as a middle order batter since 2020
As a middle order batter since 2020 (posiition 4-7), Rahul owns 1,947 runs from 51 matches (46 innings) at 57.26, as per ESPNcricinfo. In addition to 12 fifties, he owns 4 tons. He has smashed 147 fours and 51 sixes.
Stats
Rahul completes 3,000 ODI and 5,000 List A runs
During the India vs Australia match, Rahul became the third-fastest Indian to complete 3,000 ODI runs.
He came into the match, requiring just 33 runs to reach the landmark. Meanwhile, he also went past 5,000 runs in List A cricket with his 23rd run.
Rahul took just 78 innings to complete 3,000 ODI runs. Among Indians, only Shikhar Dhawan (72) and Virat Kohli (75) have reached the milestone faster.