KL Rahul Steps Up as Key Indian Batsman After Rohit and Virat Retire: Parthiv Patel

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Parthiv Patel has praised KL Rahul, stating that the talented batsman now carries a huge responsibility following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Speaking to JioHotstar, Patel said, “KL Rahul is performing brilliantly under responsibility. After Rohit and Virat’s retirement, it is now Rahul’s duty to deliver consistently in challenging situations. We know his skillset. He plays the ball late against spinners and uses his feet exceptionally well. This style suits him perfectly. What is most important now is his ability to judge pace, which he himself has highlighted. He takes time at the start, evaluates the bowlers and field placements, and then selects the right moment to attack. Currently, his Test average is around 36, but he is a far better batsman than numbers suggest. Seeing him maintain consistency this year is very encouraging.”

Rahul scored a century in the first Test against West Indies in Ahmedabad, putting up a 100-run innings. During the England tour, he was in excellent form, scoring 532 runs in 10 innings across five Tests, including two centuries and two fifties.

As one of the most experienced batsmen in the current Indian lineup, Rahul previously had to adapt constantly due to Rohit Sharma’s presence, alternating between opening and middle-order positions. With Rohit’s retirement, Rahul has now secured the opening slot in Tests, performing with full responsibility and delivering consistent batting performances, a positive for the Indian team.

In 64 Test matches, Rahul has scored 3,889 runs, including 11 centuries and 19 fifties, cementing his position as a key figure in India’s batting lineup.