Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has showered commendation on KL Rahul, emphasising the wicketkeeper-batter's assertive presence during the Asia Cup 2023. Gavaskar believes that Rahul's performance not only attests to his full fitness ahead of the ODI World Cup but also bolsters the team's confidence in their middle order.
Despite missing the Asia Cup 2023 group stages due to a minor injury sustained during his rehabilitation at the NCA in Bengaluru, KL Rahul received unwavering support from the selection committee and team management. They named him in both the Asia Cup and World Cup squads, overlooking his injury history.
Rahul's chance to shine came during the Super 4s match against Pakistan, stepping in for Shreyas Iyer who was sidelined just before the toss. Seizing the moment, Rahul delivered a match-winning century, partnering with Virat Kohli in a record 233-run stand for the third wicket. Displaying finesse against Pakistan's bowlers, Rahul struck 12 boundaries and two sixes, accumulating 169 runs in four matches.
Addressing doubts about Rahul's inclusion in the World Cup team, Gavaskar told India Today "Very, very good to see him fit. We all knew what his quality is. He has proven it over such a long time. That 100 per cent proves his fitness," especially noting his stamina in running between the wickets alongside the swift Kohli.
Gavaskar further extolled Rahul's attitude, particularly during the Pakistan match, and highlighted the bolstered middle order with the inclusion of Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya. "The most important thing was the self-belief he showed in that particular century," Gavaskar remarked, recalling his own prediction from years ago about Rahul being the next significant figure in Indian cricket.
He added, "He now gives so much bulk to the middle-order. He, Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya are absolutely unbelievable. This is turning out be a very, very good Indian team."
India is now gearing up for a three-match ODI series against Australia at home from 22nd to 27th September, followed by their World Cup campaign.
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