Within the build-up to subsequent yr’s T20 World Cup, the talk round India’s excellent enjoying XI is heating up. Among the many many factors of dialogue, the wicket-keeper batter’s function stays a sizzling matter, with names like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel and Ishan Kishan in competition. Nevertheless, former England star and Delhi Capitals mentor Kevin Pietersen believed KL Rahul is not only again within the image – he would possibly truly be India’s best choice.
KL Rahul’s batting method in T20s: From conservative to commanding
Rahul’s T20 intent has usually been questioned previously, however 2024 has showcased a distinct model of the fashionable right-hander. With a aware effort to adapt his recreation, Rahul has develop into the main run-scorer for Delhi Capitals this IPL 2025 season, mixing aggression with class. Pietersen, who has engaged in deep conversations with Rahul about evolving his batting, lauded his transformation.
He identified that Rahul’s early cricketing schooling emphasised conventional methods like enjoying straight and defending properly, which may be robust habits to interrupt after a sure age. But, Rahul has efficiently reprogrammed his mindset to fulfill the calls for of recent T20 cricket—a shift Pietersen credit to his maturity and adaptableness.
Not simply IPL kind, however Rahul’s performances for India in ODIs, particularly his ending touches in tight video games, have caught Pietersen’s eye. As codecs proceed to evolve quickly, Pietersen feels Rahul’s acceptance of change and his skill to reinvent himself make him a prime candidate to bat at 4—a spot demanding stability, acceleration, and good recreation administration.
“KL has been enjoying in a really constructive method since…mid to late final yr. We noticed how he completed off a few the video games for India and nearly sealed the deal within the Champions Trophy in Dubai,” Pietersen stated within the post-match press convention.
Additionally WATCH: Virat Kohli imitates KL Rahul’s ‘Kantara celebration’ post DC vs RCB match in IPL 2025
Kevin Pietersen picks the most effective batting place for KL Rahul
India historically boast a robust lineup of explosive openers, however the quantity 4 slot stays a vital bridge between the top-order fireworks and the ending blows. In accordance with Pietersen, Rahul’s present kind and method make him the right engine on this middle-order machine. His skill to gauge circumstances, rotate strike, and shift gears when required is precisely what India will want, particularly on the slower, trickier surfaces anticipated through the World Cup.
“I believe you guys have gotten loads of opening batters. You’ve received Surya who bats on the prime, and also you’ve received all of those guys however the best way that KL Rahul is enjoying cricket now, he could be my first option to bat at 4 and hold wicket for India,” he added.
Pietersen additionally highlighted that wickets haven’t been as batting-friendly this IPL season, making tactical and rhythmic batting much more important. In such situations, gamers like Rahul, who can take up stress after which counter-attack, develop into invaluable property. Furthermore, Rahul’s calmness behind the stumps can supply India steadiness, expertise, and a gentle head in crunch moments.
With the T20 World Cup to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka—nations recognized for his or her spin-friendly tracks—Rahul’s skill to play spin and adapt his tempo might be essential. Pietersen’s endorsement isn’t nearly Rahul’s batting; it’s a nod to his all-round cricketing acumen, management qualities, and psychological toughness, all of which may serve India properly of their quest for T20 glory.
“I’ve had a variety of extremely good conversations with him about batting – a variety of deep and significant conversations as a result of once you develop up as a teenager like he did and also you get taught defence, elbow up, play within the V after which impulsively in your thirties, you’ve received to vary it and also you’ve received to develop into a distinct sort of participant for a distinct format which is evolving on a regular basis,” Pietersen concluded.
Additionally WATCH: Virat Kohli and KL Rahul involve in heated exchange during DC vs RCB clash in IPL 2025
