Former England cricketer Owais Shah has lauded KL Rahul, predicting that the stylish Indian batter is set to thrive now that both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have stepped away from the Test setup. Taking on the responsibility of opening, Rahul has already made a strong impression, compiling 375 runs in six innings at an average of 62.50, including multiple centuries.With a more prominent position in the batting order, Rahul has taken on the challenge of guiding the innings and offering consistency at the top. Shah feels that Rahul, who often played in the background while Kohli was leading the charge, now has the chance to emerge as India’s primary batting pillar — even ahead of the in-form Shubman Gill.
“I think he’s been in the shadow of Kohli. With Kohli at the crease, he was always going to be your main batsman and Rahul was under the radar. But this is his time to flourish. This is the first series without Virat Kohli. Look at the batting order, yes Shubman Gill has done really well, I wasn’t expecting it. I did not think he had it in him to do what he’s done so far,” Shah remarked on the Beard Before Wicket podcast.
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He also emphasised Rahul’s strengths — his technique and mental fortitude — and believes Rahul is now ready to fulfill his potential.“But I still feel KL Rahul is the best batsman in the batting line-up who you should be able to rely on. And it is time for him to deliver the sort of numbers his technique and temperament promise. I feel KL, over 10-15 matches, may just outscore Shubman Gill. I think we will see him really come about in the next 12 months,” Shah continued.Rahul’s recent century at Lord’s wasn’t just significant in match terms; it etched his name into history, making him only the second Indian — after Dilip Vengsarkar — to be listed more than once on the Lord’s honours board.Nevertheless, despite Rahul’s performances, India currently trail England 1-2 in the five-match Test series.
