Dubai: Several months have passed since KL Rahul marked a decade in international cricket, yet he continues to face a recurring question. “It’s a rather obvious inquiry that I often receive,” he remarks in a BCCI-produced video.

Rahul may have been referring to the ongoing adjustments in his batting order. This is not the sole question he frequently encounters; the 32-year-old is also asked about the pressure of maintaining his position, especially with Rishabh Pant, the fellow wicket-keeper batsman, currently sidelined.

At present, Pant finds himself waiting for his turn during practice sessions. In India’s net practice on Friday evening, he was scheduled to bat in the second round, typically reserved for substitutes or all-rounders. None of the main bowlers were set to bowl to him; only the net bowlers and a brief stint with Ravindra Jadeja after he finished his batting session. Pant consistently struck the ball with power, sending it soaring and causing journalists and security personnel to seek shelter at the far end of the field. Should an opportunity arise, Pant would undoubtedly bring a surge of energy.

Rahul acknowledged that he operates with minimal margin for error. “He is undeniably a highly talented player who has demonstrated his ability to change the game rapidly and aggressively,” Rahul stated regarding Pant. “Thus, there is always the temptation for the team, including the captain and coach, to choose between him and me.”

“However, if I am given the chance, I focus on performing to the best of my abilities. I am not competing with Rishabh, nor am I attempting to emulate his style.”

Middle Order Proficiency

At present, Rahul is part of the team due to his playing style, which aligns well with the team's needs. Scoring runs in the middle order has proven challenging on the slow pitches of Dubai, where spin and off-pace bowling have significantly hindered the run rate. Consequently, finding boundaries has been difficult, making the ability to rotate the strike essential.

Rahul has honed his skills in the middle order, adeptly finding gaps or executing powerful shots when necessary. After years of adapting to various batting positions, he has identified a role in which he excels. His contribution was pivotal in alleviating pressure during India's run chase against Bangladesh, where he scored an unbeaten 41 off 47 balls.

This development extends beyond the current tournament. Rahul has matured as a middle-order batsman, capable of adjusting his approach as needed. However, he has yet to attain the sharpness of a Yuvraj Singh or the finishing capabilities of an MS Dhoni, necessitating continuous improvement.

"I might enter the game with eight, ten, or twelve overs remaining, but not more than that. This realization has come to me over the past six or seven months as I transitioned from batting at number five to number six, and occasionally number seven. I understand that I need to possess the skill set to hit sixes, possibly from the first ball, or to maintain a high strike rate," he remarked.

His struggle to start strong has been a notable issue in T20 cricket, leading to his replacement by Pant in T20 internationals. Additionally, Sanju Samson has established himself as a T20 opener.

Rahul, who is not hesitant to practice reverse sweeps during net sessions, has made his training more purposeful to maximize his potential. This approach is essential for overcoming the challenges he faces.

Read Also: MS Dhoni's Fiery Response Leaves CSK Coach Michael Hussey Speechless

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