In his first high-profile captaincy assignment, the Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) skipper, KL Rahul will be looking at the team from the front and use the nuggets of leadership knowledge he has collected while observing the likes of MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. However, it doesn’t make him conscious that will be replacing Dhoni behind the stumps as a wicket-keeper for India.
Rahul became the captain of the KXIP after performing consistently for the franchise in the last two seasons with the bat at the top of the order. Talking about the same during a recent media interaction, Rahul said, “Of course. They (Dhoni and Kohli) have been the most inspiring cricketers and leaders in the last 10 years at least. Having the opportunity to play under them is a great learning.”
Inside-out over covers 😍🔥#Dream11IPL #SaddaPunjab #CaptainPunjab @klrahul11 pic.twitter.com/47cRMg1svm
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) September 1, 2020
After Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket, Rahul is expected to become India’s first-choice wicket-keeper batsman in Team India. Talking about the same, Rahul said, “My focus is solely on the IPL and getting some cricket under me. It (Dhoni’s place) is a shoe or a place nobody can ever fill in Indian cricket. Whatever role is given to me, it is something I am grateful for. I am not really conscious about it, I am very clear about what my role is.”
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To start with at least, Rahul will open the batting and performing the wicket-keeping besides plotting the opposition’s downfall as captain. It can be too much pressure on the young shoulders of Rahul especially during the high-pressure event like the IPL but Rahul is excited about the challenge.
Talking about the same, KL Rahul said, “I don’t know if it is going play a part or hamper anything but I am quite looking forward to the responsibility, it is something I have always enjoyed. I am going in with an open mind and learn on the go. It is a huge bonus to have someone like Anil bhai (head coach) who comes with so much experience. He knows exactly what the players go through and the challenges involved.”
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The pitches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are expected to be on the slower side and all teams are preparing accordingly.
