KL Rahul Gets Lauded [Source: ICC and @BCCI/X.com]
KL Rahul is quickly becoming one of India’s most reliable Test batsmen, especially with seniors like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma stepping away from the format. With a five-match Test series against England starting on June 20, Rahul’s experience and calm presence will be crucial for India.
In a recent unofficial Test match between India A and England Lions, Rahul made a strong comeback by scoring a brilliant century. This was his first red-ball game in nearly five months, and he looked solid, scoring 116 runs on Day 1.
With Rohit now retired from Test cricket, Rahul’s performance could secure his spot as India’s opening batsman, likely alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
KL Rahul’s Coach Reveals How He Stayed Calm Despite Setbacks
The 33-year-old batter has always been the go-to man for India in tough situations, often shifting positions in the batting lineup to suit the team’s needs. His childhood coach, Samuel Jayaraj, wasn’t surprised by Rahul’s performance. In a chat with Times of India, he said that Rahul has always embraced challenges since he was a kid.
"If you ask me, as a coach, this isn't surprising. He was always ready. He was also a wicketkeeper. He would smartly rotate strike, taking singles on the fourth, fifth, or sixth ball, then face the next over. He follows instructions really well. If you noticed in the Champions Trophy, his role was very specific-and he executed it perfectly," Jayaraj told.
"In fact, despite having a very good ODI World Cup, he wasn't picked for the T20 World Cup. He didn't crib or get frustrated. Because he has seen these things as a kid. That's why he's so strong today both mentally and technically. And that's his biggest strength. He's matured a lot. He's been playing cricket at a high level for 10 years now. That experience shows. If you watch him now, he's a completely different player - much calmer, composed, and in control. For me, that calmness is what stands out the most," he added.
"In England, a more and more matured KL Rahul will be seen," Jayaraj remarked.
Rahul’s desire to play red-ball cricket again was evident after the IPL 2025 season. He reportedly asked the BCCI to include him in the second unofficial Test, and he made full use of the opportunity. He built important partnerships with Karun Nair and Dhruv Jurel, showing leadership and stability in the innings.
Now, with the England series around the corner, it is expected that we’ll see the best version of KL Rahul.