In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), India’s experienced middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has praised KL Rahul for his exceptional performances with the bat. Pujara, reflecting on Rahul’s consistency and technique, particularly highlighted the role of Rahul’s approach to batting and his “art of leaving” the ball during India’s crucial third Test against Australia at the Gabba.
Rahul, who has been one of India’s standout batters in the series, scored 84 runs, marking his second half-century in the current series. With 231 runs in five innings so far, Rahul’s solid performance has been pivotal for India’s batting line-up in what has been a tough series.
Rahul’s Technique and Approach:
Pujara emphasized Rahul’s technical soundness, particularly when it comes to leaving balls outside the off stump. He noted, “Whenever he’s defending or leaving the ball, he’s in a very good position,” underscoring Rahul’s awareness of where his off stump is at all times.
Rahul’s ability to let the ball come to him and his disciplined technique in leaving balls has made him a standout performer. Unlike other batters who tend to go after the ball, Rahul is methodical in his approach, often allowing the ball to hit the bat without making any rash movements.
Pujara explained, “He’s not going for the ball. And if you look at the other dismissals, where most of the batters have gone towards the ball. And let’s look at his leave. He’s quite, he’s very well balanced.”
The Art of Leaving the Ball:
Pujara’s comments were a reflection on the importance of playing the ball late, which Rahul has mastered. He praised Rahul for being able to cover his off stump and, once he recognizes the ball is outside the line, keeping his bat close to his body and letting the ball go through to the wicketkeeper.
This discipline has paid off as some deliveries, which nipped back in during the series, have found Rahul well-positioned. “Some balls did nip back in. And he kept his bat there and it edged and didn’t carry,” said Pujara, noting Rahul’s ability to play with soft hands, a technique that has proved critical in ensuring he stays at the crease.
Pujara also emphasized the importance of playing with soft hands when defending. This key technique has allowed Rahul to avoid getting caught out, even when the ball threatens to swing in or catch the edge.
KL Rahul’s Standout Partnership with Ravindra Jadeja:
Aside from Rahul’s individual performance, Pujara also lauded the 67-run partnership between Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja. This crucial stand has significantly contributed to India’s stronger position in the third Test. Pujara described it as the “standout partnership” of the innings, highlighting its importance in stabilizing the Indian innings.
“It’s a good pitch where you can score runs. It’s not a very difficult pitch where you can’t survive or where you can’t bat,” Pujara said. He emphasized that Rahul’s ability to see off the new ball and then capitalize on the good batting conditions was a key element of his success.
Contribution of Ravindra Jadeja:
Pujara also pointed out that Ravindra Jadeja, who was picked as a batter for this series, played a vital role in the partnership with Rahul. Jadeja’s contributions in the middle order have demonstrated why he was chosen as a batter in this series. His solid performance not only helped Rahul build a crucial stand but also gave the Indian innings the much-needed stability.
“KL has showed that if you apply yourself, if you bat well, it’s a good pitch where you can score runs. And even an important contribution from Ravindra because he was picked as a batter and he showed that why he was picked,” Pujara said.
Looking Ahead:
Rahul’s performance and his technique in this series have been a standout feature for India. His ability to leave the ball and his composed approach to batting have set him apart from other batters in the series. Pujara’s praise underscores the key role Rahul has played in India’s batting lineup, especially in conditions where others have faltered.
As the series progresses, Rahul’s contribution is expected to be even more vital, with his ability to see off tough phases and build partnerships being integral to India’s success. His partnership with Jadeja has also shown the strength of India’s middle order, further highlighting how important each player’s contributions are in the ongoing contest against Australia.
In summary, KL Rahul’s solid technique, his understanding of the art of leaving the ball, and his partnerships have been instrumental in India’s strong performance in the third Test, earning praise from his teammates like Cheteshwar Pujara.
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