Indian batsman KL Rahul openly discussed the difficulties he faces in rotating the strike, particularly when starting his innings. He admitted this has been a consistent challenge, especially on pitches like the one in Dubai.
Rahul highlighted that his batting position in the Indian team has been inconsistent throughout his career. He has been asked to bat at almost every position in the order, from opener to number 6 and even lower. He understands that adapting to these frequent changes is necessary for the team’s balance, although not always easy for a player.
Speaking about the Dubai pitch conditions, Rahul mentioned that it adds another layer of complexity. The nature of the surface makes it harder to rotate the strike immediately upon entering the game, which can lead to pressure from accumulating dot balls. He explained that when batsmen face too many dot balls, they are often forced into attempting riskier shots, offering opportunities to the opposition.
Rahul emphasized the team’s focus on reducing dot ball percentages and finding effective ways to keep the scoreboard moving, even on challenging wickets where boundary hitting isn’t straightforward.
To navigate these challenges, Rahul mentioned seeking advice from experienced teammates like Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, who have spent considerable time batting on similar wickets. He discusses their strategies for targeting specific areas of the field and adapting their gameplay to the pitch conditions. These conversations help him tailor his approach to suit the situation and his individual strengths.
Furthermore, Rahul acknowledged the added pressure of being the preferred wicketkeeper-batsman in the ODI team, especially with competition from a talented player like Rishabh Pant. He recognizes the constant need to perform and secure his place in the team, given Pant’s abilities.
Regarding criticism on social media, Rahul expressed a balanced perspective. He stated he is accustomed to online scrutiny and uses it as an opportunity to assess the validity of the feedback. While he accepts that mistakes are part of the game, he prioritizes playing with good intent and making decisions he believes are best for the team.
