Former England cricketer Owais Shah believes KL Rahul’s potential was overshadowed by Virat Kohli’s towering presence in the Test side—and that this series finally offers him a chance to shine. Speaking on the Beard Before Wicket podcast, Shah said, “I think he’s been in the shadow of Kohli. With Kohli at the crease, he was always going to be your main batsman, and Rahul was under the radar. But this is his time to flourish… I did not think he had it in him to do what he’s done so far.” 

Shah was quick to acknowledge Shubman Gill’s stellar run—his century at Lord’s securing him a spot on the honours board—but emphasized Rahul’s reliability. “I still feel KL Rahul is the best batsman in the batting line-up who you should be able to rely on… Over 10‑15 matches, he may just outscore Shubman Gill,” Shah predicted.

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Rahul has made an impressive start to England, amassing 375 runs in six innings at an average of 62.50, including two centuries and a half-century. 

Owais Shah also reflected on India’s narrow loss at Lord’s, pointing to the missed opportunities of all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant.

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“Jadeja scored a couple of fifties… the only two players who could have spoiled the English party were Rishabh Pant or Ravindra Jadeja… If one of them succeeds, the rest should bat around them, making India favourites.” He lamented the lack of support around them despite Jadeja’s 327 runs over six innings. (cricket.one)

As India prepares for the fourth Test in Manchester starting July 23, the onus now falls on Rahul to justify Shah’s prediction and stake his claim as India’s new batting mainstay. Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pant must convert their starts into match-winning contributions to prevent England pulling further ahead in this gripping five-match showdown.