KL Rahul has made it clear that his primary goal is to be part of the playing XI for India’s day-night Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval. The versatile batter is ready to adapt to any role or batting position to contribute to the team’s success.
Confident and Ready for Any Challenge
Rahul, who has faced constant shifts in his batting position throughout his career, remains unfazed about where he will bat in the upcoming Test. While he knows his assigned position, the team management has instructed him not to disclose it publicly. “I have been told where I will bat, but I’ve also been asked to keep it a secret,” Rahul quipped during a press interaction, exuding calmness and confidence.
This confidence stems from his strong performance in the first Test in Perth, where he opened the innings in Rohit Sharma’s absence. Partnering with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul scored a crucial 77 in the second innings, helping India secure their first-ever 200-plus opening stand on Australian soil. His composure and adaptability earned praise, despite a controversial decision cutting his first-innings effort short.
Adjusting to Team Dynamics
With Rohit Sharma back from paternity leave, Rahul’s opening slot is likely to go to the skipper, potentially pushing Rahul down the order. Additionally, Shubman Gill’s recovery adds competition for the top-order spots. However, Rahul remains unbothered by these changes, emphasizing his readiness to fit into any role.
“I just want to be in the playing XI. Just fit me in. I want to go out there, bat, and contribute to the team. Having batted in different positions over the years, I’ve learned to keep my game simple and focus on what’s required in each situation,” Rahul said.
Preparing for His First Pink-Ball Test
The Adelaide Test marks Rahul’s debut in a pink-ball match, and he acknowledged the unique challenges of adapting to the ball’s different color and visibility. “This will be my first pink-ball Test. It’s a little tricky to pick up the ball, but with a few more practice sessions, it should be fine,” Rahul said.
To prepare, he has been seeking advice from teammates who have prior experience with the pink ball. “It’s about learning from others and understanding how they adjusted to the challenges. That insight will be crucial for me,” he added.
A Career Defined by Adaptability
Throughout his career, Rahul has demonstrated exceptional flexibility. Primarily an opener, he has seamlessly transitioned to the middle-order and even served as a wicketkeeper in challenging conditions. Notably, he scored one of the finest centuries by an Indian batter in South Africa while adjusting to a new role.
Reflecting on his journey, Rahul admitted that adapting to different positions was initially challenging, especially mentally. “In the beginning, it was tough to adjust to new roles and decide how to approach the first few balls. Over time, playing in various formats and conditions has helped me improve my game and mindset,” he explained.
Focused on the Task Ahead
As India prepares for the Adelaide Test, Rahul is determined to make the most of his opportunities. With his adaptable mindset and recent performances, he remains an invaluable asset to the team in their pursuit of success in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
