KL Rahul has played a crucial, yet often unnoticed, role in India’s journey to the Champions Trophy 2025 final. His important innings of 42 not out against Australia in the semi-final demonstrated his value to the team. Despite some criticism, head coach Gautam Gambhir has strongly supported Rahul.
However, to accommodate Axar Patel in the team, Rahul has been batting lower down the order at No. 6 instead of his usual No. 5 position. Cricket legend Anil Kumble has praised Rahul’s performance but suggested he should bat higher up the order.
Kumble believes Rahul should have batted before Axar Patel during the run chase against Australia. He acknowledged Axar’s partnership with Virat Kohli but emphasized Rahul’s ability to finish games, stating, “If he gets to 30, he will ensure that you cross the line.”
Kumble further noted the immense pressure on Rahul: “If he does well, it’s expected. If he fails even in one innings, suddenly the whole world comes after him.” He highlighted that despite pressure, including scrutiny of his wicket-keeping, Rahul demonstrated his capabilities in the recent match.
In the semi-final, Rahul contributed valuable partnerships with Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, guiding India to victory. He remained unbeaten, scoring 42 from 34 balls with two fours and two sixes, securing the win with a six and 11 balls remaining.
Coach Gautam Gambhir has consistently backed KL Rahul, recognizing his versatility as a batter who can open, bat at No. 3, or No. 6 in Test cricket. Gambhir has also affirmed Rahul as the primary wicket-keeper batter for India, citing his impressive ODI average of nearly 50.
The decision to position Axar Patel at No. 5, pushing Rahul to No. 6, is a strategic move by Gambhir to strengthen the team’s batting depth. Axar has justified this promotion with useful contributions, including a knock of 27 against Australia and a vital 42 against New Zealand in a previous group match when India was in early trouble.
India is set to face New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 final on Saturday, March 8.
