Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra was full of praise for KL Rahul after the wicketkeeper-batter produced a calm and match-winning knock in India’s thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first ODI at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara. Rahul’s unbeaten 29 under pressure played a decisive role in guiding India home in a tense 301-run chase and set the tone for the three-match series.
India found themselves in a tricky situation at 242 for 5 when young all-rounder Harshit Rana walked out to join Rahul. With wickets falling and the pressure mounting, Rahul made a conscious decision to shift gears. Instead of going for big shots, he focused on rotating the strike and ensuring that New Zealand did not get a look at India’s tail.
The 37-run stand that followed, with Harshit Rana doing most of the scoring, was vital in steadying the innings. After Rana’s dismissal, Rahul had to take even more responsibility. Washington Sundar, carrying an injury, came out to bat, and Rahul once again chose the percentage option, shielding his partner while still keeping the scoreboard moving.
WATCH – Ajit Agarkar’s Reaction To Rohit Sharma’s Six Steals The Show In Vadodara ODI
The pair added another 27 runs, taking India within touching distance of the target. Rahul resisted the temptation to attack until the perfect moment arrived. With India needing 12 runs off the final two overs, Rahul flipped the switch. In the 49th over, he struck two crisp boundaries and then launched a six in the last three balls, effectively sealing the game for India and showcasing his ice-cool temperament under pressure.
Speaking on JioStar, Aakash Chopra lauded Rahul’s intelligent and adaptable approach. He noted that while Rahul is known as an aggressive batter, this innings highlighted his ability to read the situation and play what the team needed. Chopra also drew comparisons with MS Dhoni, praising Rahul’s composure in the death overs.
“KL Rahul’s approach was fascinating,” Aakash Chopra said. “With Harshit Rana and an injured Sundar at the other end, he didn’t rush. He waited for the right moments and still found the boundaries when he wanted. That’s his biggest strength.”
ALSO READ: ECB Plans Curfew After England’s Bar Incident Fallout and Ashes Review
Chopra also highlighted Rahul’s versatility, pointing out that he can open the batting, keep wickets, lead the side when required, and now excel as a finisher. “In these death overs, controlling the nerves almost like Dhoni, hats off to him. KL Rahul is thriving in the toughest role in modern cricket – the finisher,” he added.
