Sanjay Bangar 'Highlights' Kohli's Influence On KL Rahul's Career 

image-lp51rdisKL Rahul and Virat Kohli (Twitter)

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar made it a point to highlight the influence made by legendary Virat Kohli in the topsy-turvy career of KL Rahul, who has been a vital cog in India's wheels at the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023. 

As the world appreciates Rahul's contribution as a premier wicketkeeper-batter in India's excellent run leading into the tournament final against Australia on Sunday (November 19), Bangar noted down Kohli's role in the Karnataka cricketer's journey at the highest level. 

Bangar, who had been privy to the matters within the senior set-up during his elongated tenure with Team India back in 2014-21, said there were multiple occasions where Kohli's great support encouraged Rahul to overcome a slump and fulfil his potential for the country. 

Notably, Kohli had publicly supported Rahul's promise and capabilities during his mighty successful stint as captain even when the outside noise and criticism of the player's failures had threatened to dent his spirits. All that backing has since been followed by contemporary skipper Rohit Sharma and allowed Rahul to flourish during the home World Cup. 

Bangar Notes Down Kohli's Support In Rahul's Journey 

Speaking to Star Sports ahead of the high-octane face-off with Australia, Bangar lauded Rahul as the understated figure in India's magnificent 10-0 winning streak prior to the final in Ahmedabad. 

The Indian No.5 has been a fantastic contributor with the bat, scoring 386 runs at an average of 77.20. He has also not skipped a beat behind the stumps, exhibiting outstanding wicketkeeping acumen to both pacers and seamers. 

For Bangar, none of this would've been possible without Kohli's presence in the player's journey where he has been forever touted for greatness but also faced the brickbats for his failures from critics and naysayers. 

"Virat Kohli played a big role in KL Rahul's career. Virat supported him and backed him a lot during his captaincy period," Bangar said for Kohli.