The Indian Cricket Odyssey - The Fight For Number Four, KL or Shreyas?

image-lmf9fchlKL Rahul scored a majestic century against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2023 (Source: AP Photos)

The ongoing Asia Cup has seen some commendable performances from some young and experienced players from India. With the 2023 ODI World Cup just around the corner we can still see some potential in this Indian team. With most of the bases almost covered the search for the number four  spot in the lineup still continues. With Kishan's consistent form and keeping skills securing his spot at number five, the competition for the number four slot will likely come down to KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. 

Both these batters have proven themselves with consistent performances in this format. With Rahul scoring 2003 runs in 55 matches at an average of 45.52 and Iyer scoring 1645 runs in 44 matches at an average of 45.69 the management have a tough decision to make. These two talented batters can be the players to watch out for in the future.


Cricket's Tale of Two Halves: Rahul vs. Iyer Spin-Pace Stats

image-lmf5brveIyer & Rahul Stats against Pace & Spin in ODIs since 2022

The decision between these two batters are tough since both of them have great technique and bring a great balance of elegance and aggression. They also have the ability to build their innings and play the field. Both these batters are great players of spin looking at stats versus spin since 2022. Iyer has scored 181 runs at an average of 60.33 and Rahul has scored 172 runs at an average of 86. Even though Rahul might come out on top in this comparison on that average he is slightly behind Iyer in terms of strike rate. 

Iyer has a strike rate of 95.26 and Rahul has been striking at 90.05. This might indicate that Rahul might be much more consistent in the runs but Iyer can score his runs quicker and reduce pressure. However both these players' numbers show us that they have enjoyed attacking spinners which can be an important factor to look at as they might be playing on some turning tracks. 

Their exploits versus pacers have not really been as dominant in the past as it has been versus spin. It has also been evident that Rahul has struggled with the ball coming in to him and Iyer has faced some difficulties against short pitch bowling. However they still have some decent numbers against the pacers. 

Iyer has scored 279 runs at an average of 34.88 and Rahul has scored 215 runs at an average of 35.83. Even though the stats against pace of both the batters are similar the strike rates do make a big difference. Shreyas Iyer still has still got a healthy strike rate of 93 whereas Rahul has struggled a bit in that area with a strike rate of 75.70.


Conclusion

This will be a tough decision for the captain and the management to choose between these two exceptionally talented batters. Both these players have the ability to play that important role at number 4. Through this comparison we have not only seen the positives but also a small flaw in both the two players. 

Rahul might be able to take the game deeper but his lower strike rate might hamper the scoring rate. On the other hand Iyer might be able to match up to the rate but has to play bigger knocks. Despite these small flaws both these batters are still great picks at the number 4 position.