Glenn Mcgrath on KL Rahul. [Source - @dasjy0tirmay/x.com]
Few modern Indian cricketers embody versatility quite like KL Rahul. From opening the innings in testing conditions to stabilising the middle order or even donning the wicketkeeping gloves when the team requires, Rahul has seamlessly adapted to every role assigned to him.
His calm temperament, classical technique, and ability to adapt make him a rare blend of elegance and dependability in modern cricket. The world has finally started to understand what makes KL Rahul special, a player who delivers more often than not, no matter the role or situation.
Cricket fraternity’s growing admiration for Rahul
Over the years, Rahul’s journey has been a lesson in resilience. While injuries, role changes and dip in form could have unsettled many, he has consistently reinvented himself, whether in Test whites, ODI blues, or T20 colours.
Slowly but surely, the cricketing fraternity has begun to acknowledge his immense value beyond just the runs he scores. Many experts and legends have spoken highly of Rahul’s flexibility and composure, recognising the unique balance he brings to India’s batting line-up.
And now, another legendary figure, Glenn McGrath, has joined the chorus of admiration. Speaking on the Fast Bowling Cartel YouTube channel the Australian great shed light on KL Rahul’s versatility and how underrated he is after the first ODI between Australia and India in Perth.
“I think he has batted in all 11 positions at some stage. It must be tough on him. He is one of those versatile players. He top-scored for India in fairly tough conditions. So, from opening down to I am not sure how low he has batted. Sometimes that can mess with your confidence, but I think for him, maybe he is just used to it and adapts. He keeps as well, so he is a very versatile player,” McGrath said.
The Chameleon who fits every role
The praise from McGrath, a man known for his discipline and consistency, perfectly captures what defines KL Rahul’s cricketing identity. In an era where players often seek comfort in fixed roles, Rahul thrives in fluidity and has actually said has admitted what his comfortable batting position is recently.
He is the chameleon, the mould that fits every role. At times, he has faced criticism from fans and pundits alike, but it is quite evident that once given a consistent role, opening in Tests and anchoring the middle order in ODIs now, Rahul can display the kind of consistency that truly justifies the immense talent he possesses.
And yet, even then, he would not hesitate to step out of his comfort zone for the team’s needs. As the legend’s words suggest, Rahul’s quiet adaptability may just be his greatest strength.