KL Rahul, the current stand-in ODI captain for Team India, emphasized the significance of adaptability, stating the importance of embracing any role assigned by the team management.
He highlighted his consistent willingness to adapt to the team’s needs throughout his career and expressed his ambition to represent the national team in various formats.
During a pre-series press conference ahead of the three-match ODI series against South Africa, Rahul stated:
“Yes, of course. I want to play for the country and play as many games as I can. Unfortunately, I missed a lot of cricket because of injuries.”
”I would like to make the most of my time and play as many games as I can. Whatever role it is, whatever is expected out of me, I have done that throughout my career so far.”
“I don’t think that is going to change. For me, the team always comes first. It is a team game. No position is yours; you have to be able to perform whatever the team requires and have to be flexible.” he added.
KL Rahul affirmed that he would continue to keep wickets and play in the middle order during the ODI series in South Africa, a role he undertook during the 2023 World Cup. He also indicated his openness to assume a similar role in Test matches, stating:
“I don’t know about all formats; my focus is on this ODI series. Yes, I will be doing the same role; I will be wicketkeeping and batting in the middle order.”
”I would be happy to take up that role, even in the Test matches. I have always been hoping to doing new roles and accepting whatever role the team wants me to perform.”
KL Rahul played a pivotal role for India in the recent World Cup, making significant contributions both as a batsman and wicketkeeper.
With an impressive tally of 452 runs from 10 innings, he will lead the team in the ODI series against South Africa due to the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma.
“Anticipating them to match Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli’s role in the World Cup is premature”- KL Rahul on Indian youngsters
KL Rahul emphasized continuing the approach from the 2023 World Cup but noted that newcomers might need time to adjust, cautioning against expecting them to emulate senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
“I don’t think a lot will change in terms of how we want to play ODI cricket. But there are a few new faces. To expect them to go out and play the role that Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli played in the World Cup will be too soon.”
”You have to give them their time and make them feel comfortable. So, there is no added pressure from my side or anybody’s side.” KL Rahul elaborated.
The first match of the ODI series between India and South Africa is scheduled for Sunday, December 17, at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
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