KL Rahul has a dependable record in ODIs, scoring 1945 runs in 50 innings with an average of 46.30 and a strike rate of 87.14. He has five centuries and 13 half-centuries to his credit. Rahul has been exceptional in the number five batting position, amassing 733 runs in 17 innings at an average of 56.38 and a brisk strike rate of 99.72 while handling pressure with maturity and composure.
Let’s look at the three most recent instances where KL Rahul stood up for India in crucial situations during ODIs.
1. Eden Gardens 2023: 64* (103) vs Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka won the toss and batted first but collapsed from 101/1 to 215. India lost early wickets in their chase, but KL Rahul’s composed innings led them to victory. Rahul partnered with Iyer, Pandya, and Patel to secure a 2-0 series win. Reflecting on his performance, Rahul expressed his love for performing under pressure and credited batting at No. 5 for improving his game awareness.
Mirpur 2022: 73 (70) vs Bangladesh
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first. India’s top three batsmen fell quickly, leaving them struggling at 49 runs in the 11th over on a difficult pitch. KL Rahul was the only Indian batsman to score comfortably, contributing 73 runs with five fours and four sixes. Despite posting a total of 186 runs, India’s score proved challenging as Bangladesh won the match by just one wicket with a crucial last-wicket partnership of 51 runs.
Wankhede 2023: 75* (91) vs Australia
India won the toss and opted to field first. Australia got off to a strong start, scoring 100 runs in 16.4 overs for the loss of two wickets. However, Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja’s excellent bowling performances restricted them to under 200 runs. India’s top-order batters fell quickly, leaving the team at 39/4. Rahul, Pandya, and Jadeja stepped up to lead India to a hard-fought victory with crucial partnerships and intelligent batting.
