'I Think It's Too Early' - KL Rahul Opens Up On India's Plans For ODI Cricket After World Cup 2023
KL Rahul in the batting practice session ahead of ODI series against South Africa(x.com)
On past Thursday at Johannesburg, Surya Kumar Yadav successfully levelled the T20I series 1-1, showcasing his captaincy skills. As the Indian cricket team prepares for the three-match ODI series, which is scheduled to begin on December 17 in Johannesburg, the leadership has now been turned over to KL Rahul.
Addressing the media in a pre-match press conference at Johannesburg today, Rahul expressed his pragmatic approach, stating,
"I think it's too early to look at the bigger picture when it comes to ODI cricket. The focus is obviously on the T20 World Cup which is around the corner. There's not a lot of cricket left for the Indian team in T20Is, so the focus has shifted a little bit. The focus for the last 2-3 years was the ODI WC and now it has shifted to the T20I one, and Test cricket always remains important for our country. Having said that, we will focus on this series and try to win it."
With the T20 World Cup 2024 looming large, Rahul emphasized the team's redirection of focus. The series against South Africa will be a crucial litmus test for Rahul's captaincy, and the young side will be eager to secure victory in the ODIs before delving into the longest format of the game.
The ODI series, commencing on December 17, promises to be a riveting clash between two formidable cricketing nations. As Rahul takes charge, all eyes will be on the dynamic captain to lead the team to success. Fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown, with the hope that Rahul can emulate Yadav's success in the T20Is.
Post the ODI series, the cricketing action doesn't cease. The excitement continues with a two-match Test series scheduled to commence on December 26.
 "Sumit Gupta")