KL Rahul’s journey as a cricketer has been one of notable evolution, particularly in his role as a wicketkeeper-batter. Despite his significant growth behind the stumps and his overall development as a player, KL Rahul is no longer viewed as India’s primary wicketkeeper for Test matches. Dinesh Karthik, a former Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has expressed reservations about Rahul’s role in this capacity, citing both physical and strategic concerns.
Dinesh Karthik acknowledges the considerable progress Rahul has made in his wicketkeeping skills, which were once considered secondary to his primary role as a batsman. However, he raises valid points about the rigorous demands of wicketkeeping in Test cricket, which could potentially affect Rahul’s performance and health over time.
Karthik emphasizes that the physical toll of a five-day match, particularly on Rahul’s back, might make it challenging for him to take on the role full-time. Karthik highlights that the workload associated with Test wicketkeeping is significantly more demanding compared to the shorter formats of the game.
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This physical strain, combined with Rahul’s history of injury issues, suggests that maintaining his health would be a better long-term strategy than overburdening him with wicketkeeping duties.
According to Dinesh Karthik, the Indian team management would be prudent to focus on Rahul’s batting prowess rather than risking his physical well-being with the added responsibility of wicketkeeping.
On Cricbuzz, Dinesh Karthik remarked, “KL Rahul has indeed evolved into a very competent keeper. It’s no longer fair to label him as just a part-time wicketkeeper. However, Test cricket’s demanding nature might not suit his long-term health, particularly his back. He should be given the opportunity to excel as a batsman, where he has the potential to shine brightly.”
Adding another perspective, former cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out that Rahul will likely always be in the shadow of Indian cricket’s giants, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
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Aakash Chopra noted on his YouTube channel, “KL Rahul is a talented player, but he will always be compared to the likes of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Despite his skill and potential, he must continue to score runs to secure his place and avoid being overshadowed.”
As KL Rahul gears up for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, he will look to demonstrate his capabilities and solidify his role in the Indian team.
