Rotating the strike as soon as you go in has been a challenge, KL Rahul

KL Rahul Discusses Adapting to Changing Roles, Batting Challenges, and Social Media Criticism

• KL Rahul’s Versatility in Batting Positions:
  KL Rahul has been moved around the batting order in ODIs, often filling in different roles as per the team’s needs. He has batted at positions ranging from No. 1 to No. 7, with 16 times at No. 1, 7 times at No. 2, and others across various spots. While primarily an opener, Rahul acknowledges the difficulty of adapting to shifting positions but maintains a “do your job” mindset.
  • “It’s never easy for anyone to be moved around the batting order, but that’s how the game works,” said Rahul, emphasizing that players must leave such decisions to the team management and focus on doing their best.
• Challenges at Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS):
  The pitch at DICS has been tough to bat on, particularly due to its difficulty in rotating the strike and minimizing dot balls. Rahul noted the struggle to keep the scoreboard ticking against both spinners and fast bowlers and the added pressure of not accumulating dot balls.
  • “Once dot balls pile up, pressure builds, and it forces you to take unnecessary risks or play a big shot, giving bowlers opportunities,” Rahul explained, stressing the importance of finding ways to rotate the strike efficiently.
• Team Discussions for Batting Strategy:
  Rahul often consults teammates who have spent more time in the middle to gain insights about the wicket and determine the best strategies for batting.
  • “We chat within the group, speaking to players like Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer to understand the conditions better. These conversations help in deciding which shots to target, whether playing square of the wicket or more straight,” Rahul shared.
• Wicketkeeping Pressure from Rishabh Pant:
  As India’s preferred wicketkeeper, Rahul faces additional pressure from Rishabh Pant, a specialist wicketkeeper. He acknowledged the competition for the role but emphasized that his focus remains on doing his best when given the opportunity.
  • “There’s always the temptation to play Rishabh or me, but I don’t try to compete with him or play like him. We are both picked for our individual strengths,” Rahul explained.
• Dealing with Social Media Criticism:
  KL Rahul is one of the most trolled cricketers on social media. Despite the criticism, Rahul maintains a balanced perspective, focusing on the validity of the feedback.
  • “I’m used to the criticism. Sometimes I sit back and evaluate whether it’s valid. If it is, I take it into account. If not, I move on,” he said, adding that his main goal is to contribute positively to the team and be at peace with his decisions.
• Mindset and Approach to Cricket:
  Rahul emphasized the importance of staying focused and committed, regardless of external pressure or media scrutiny. He expressed that, as long as his heart is in the right place and he’s giving his best for the team, he can sleep peacefully after the game.