KL Rahul was instrumental with the bat, in the second ODI against Sri lanka guiding India’s 216-run pursuit after a rocky beginning. India lost early wickets, but Rahul and Hardik Pandya eventually worked together to enable them win by four wickets and take a commanding 2-0 series lead. Rahul finished with a perfect 64. Rahul with knock showed his class and reminded his position in team.
Rahul has always played the position of opener for the Indian Test and Twenty20 teams. However, his duties have changed in the Indian ODI setup. Rahul will bat at No. 5 in the ODI lineup and serve as the team’s finisher and it looks like he is enjoying his role.
He has to show his craft consistently, as the race for the role of wicket keeper-batter is a bit competetive in the Indian team. As there are many other options for the particular role such as Rishabh Pant (injured), Ishan Kishan who recently made a double hundred and Sanju Samson also had good stats in ODI’s.
The advantage of playing in middle order is that ‘you get time to put your feet up’ and you can analyse the situation before you come to bat. Rahul to play at no. 5, also boosts the middle order of the team. His last innings shows that he is capable of performing under pressure, which will give a strong back to the team.
From the perspective of upcoming World Cup preparations also, this will give a good shape to the team. India will face Sri lanka in the next and the final ODI of the 3 match series, to finish off with a clean sweap.
