Anil Kumble believes KL Rahul is often under unnecessary pressure, but his match-winning knock against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final should boost his confidence.
Chasing 265, Rahul batted at No. 6 after Axar Patel’s dismissal. India needed 87 off 90 balls, and Rahul built crucial partnerships with Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya to guide them home. He remained unbeaten on 42 off 34 balls.
Kumble, speaking on ESPNcricinfo Match Day, felt Rahul should have batted ahead of Axar. “Axar did well with Kohli, but KL coming in earlier would have been better. Once he reaches 30, he ensures victory. He’s a class act and consistent. This innings will give him confidence. There’s always pressure on him—if he does well, it’s expected, but one failure, and he’s criticized. Even his keeping was under scrutiny, but today he showed his quality.”
Post-match, Rahul said he was used to playing different positions, but Sanjay Manjrekar had another perspective. “Sometimes, limited time helps him. He thinks only about attacking, and today he took that responsibility. I’ve rarely seen him build an innings steadily like Kohli. Maybe batting down suits him better.”
Manjrekar also noted Rahul’s sensitivity. “Every failure seems to affect him. I don’t know him personally, but he appears to be a nice guy. India wants him in the XI, and this innings made him a happy man.”
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