"Give the bowlers respect for first 30 overs" KL Rahul explains mantra behind success in BGT 2024-25

KL Rahul scored 84 runs in the first innings of the third BGT 2024-25 test in Brisbane.

KL Rahul has emerged as India‘s most reliable batsman in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25.

Rahul has been faced criticism throughout his test career for his inconsistent performances. Despite showcasing glimpses of brilliance, he has struggled to find a permanent place in the Indian test team.

The 32-year-old was initially expected to play in the middle order in the BGT 2024-25. However, he got the opportunity to open the innings due to Rohit Sharma’s unavailability in the first test in Perth. His impressive performance in Perth earned him a longer rope at the opening slot, with Rohit dropping down to No. 6.

Rahul continued his good form in the third test of the series in Brisbane. In response to Australia’s 445 in the first innings, he stood tall for the visitors after the team was reduced to 51/4 on day 3.

The Indian opener then played some elegant strokes during his 84-run innings on day 4, consisting of eight boundaries. He added 67 runs with Ravindra Jadeja, strengthening India’s hopes of avoiding the follow-on.

His patience and ability to defend and leave good deliveries have been the highlight of his batting. While other Indian players like Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have thrown away their wickets playing expansive strokes, Rahul has shown grit and determination

KL Rahul on his success mantra in BGT 2024-25

Speaking to the media after his excellent innings in Brisbane, Rahul explained the importance of seeing through the new ball and then capitalizing later in the innings.

Rahul said, “We don’t mind playing in fast & bouncy pitches but first 20-30 overs, you have to give the bowlers respect – leave the ball and play as tight as possible and then really try to cash with the older ball – that is my plan to bat in test cricket.“

Playing XIs of both teams for Brisbane test:

India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rohit Sharma (c), Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj.

Australia: Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood.

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