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Tag: KL Rahul

  • Kuldeep Yadav Acknowledges KL Rahul’s Role in His Impressive Bowling Display in the Asia Cup

    Kuldeep Yadav Acknowledges KL Rahul’s Role in His Impressive Bowling Display in the Asia Cup

    Kuldeep Yadav, India’s left-arm spinner, has acknowledged the valuable input provided by wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul during his impressive bowling performances in the Asia Cup 2023. Kuldeep has emerged as India’s key asset in the tournament, claiming a total of 9 wickets in his last two appearances.

    Kuldeep Yadav Acknowledges KL Rahul's Role in His Impressive Bowling Display in the Asia Cup

    In India’s first Super Four match against Pakistan, Kuldeep Yadav’s exceptional performance saw him capture 5 wickets for just 25 runs, contributing significantly to India’s record-breaking 228-run victory. The spinner continued to shine during India’s second Super Four clash against Sri Lanka on September 12.

    Despite India’s low total of 213 runs, the team managed to turn the game in their favor, bowling out Sri Lanka for 172 runs, securing a 41-run win that secured their place in the Asia Cup 2023 final. Kuldeep Yadav played a pivotal role in India’s hard-fought victory over Sri Lanka, claiming four crucial wickets. After the match, he credited his teammate KL Rahul for one of his wickets.

    Also Read: KL Rahul Issues a Strong Warning to Dunith Wellalage, Saying “The Next Time We Play, We Will Go After Him”

    During the game, Kuldeep Yadav pointed towards KL Rahul after having Sadeera Samarawickrama stumped. When asked about the incident by his teammate Suryakumar Yadav, Kuldeep explained:

    “I was pointing towards KL bhai because he advised me to bowl outside off as the ball was spinning a lot. When I stuck to a stump line, it was easy for the batsman. So, I decided to target the 4th-5th stump area, and the ball drifted beautifully.

    Kuldeep Yadav Acknowledges KL Rahul's Role in His Impressive Bowling Display in the Asia Cup

    “It was a well-thought-out plan, and we had employed the same strategy against Shadab Khan yesterday. My intention was to bring the ball back in from outside the off stump. I want to give the credit to KL bhai,” he added.

  • KL Rahul Issues a Strong Warning to Dunith Wellalage, Saying “The Next Time We Play, We Will Go After Him”

    KL Rahul Issues a Strong Warning to Dunith Wellalage, Saying “The Next Time We Play, We Will Go After Him”

    Indian wicketkeeper-batter, KL Rahul, praised the young Sri Lankan spinner, Dunith Wellalage, for his brilliant five-wicket haul in the Asia Cup 2023. However, Rahul didn’t shy away from issuing a spirited challenge to Wellalage for future encounters.

    KL Rahul Issues a Strong Warning to Dunith Wellalage, Saying "The Next Time We Play, We Will Go After Him"

    After India’s 41-run victory over Sri Lanka in the Super Four clash at R. Premadasa Stadium on September 12, KL Rahul acknowledged Wellalage’s exceptional performance, noting that the Sri Lankan spinner was the most menacing bowler until he was at the crease.

    He commended Wellalage’s accuracy, highlighting that he played a pivotal role by taking five top-order Indian wickets. Rahul also praised Wellalage for his batting contribution. Rahul went on to deliver a stern warning to the young spinner, stating, “The next time we play, we will go after him.”

    Dunith Wellalage’s five-wicket haul included the dismissals of key Indian batters such as Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya. Despite his impressive efforts, Sri Lanka fell short, getting bowled out for 172 runs while chasing a target of 214 runs.

    Also Read: Lasith Malinga Identifies Dunith Wellalage as Sri Lanka’s Emerging Star

    KL Rahul elaborated on his approach, emphasizing the importance of adapting shot selection based on the bowler and prevailing conditions. He highlighted the dynamic nature of decision-making during a match, where a player must assess the situation and conditions to make the right shot choices.

    Rahul stated, “After playing the first few balls, I tried to figure out what are the shots that I can play here. You can get into your shell, defend, and try to defuse the threat, but I thought I would try to play my shots but be careful about what shots to choose against which bowler. That is sort of an on-the-go decision you make.”

    “I’m glad the shot selections I made till the point I got out worked well. Maybe next time it might be a bit different. Yesterday was different. We were able to play more shots, but today was different. As a batter, you try to assess the situation and conditions and decide what shots you can play,” he concluded.

    KL Rahul Issues a Strong Warning to Dunith Wellalage, Saying "The Next Time We Play, We Will Go After Him"

    KL Rahul’s comeback in international cricket against Pakistan, following an extended injury layoff, proved pivotal for India. He was included in the playing XI after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out due to back spasms. Rahul went on to form a match-defining partnership with Virat Kohli, scoring an unbeaten century.

  • Sunil Gavaskar Lauds Jasprit Bumrah’s Mastery Spell against Pakistan

    Sunil Gavaskar Lauds Jasprit Bumrah’s Mastery Spell against Pakistan

    Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar showered accolades on Jasprit Bumrah for his exceptional performance during the India vs. Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2023 Super Four stage. In a triumphant return to ODI cricket after an absence of over a year, Jasprit Bumrah demonstrated his brilliance on the field.

    Sunil Gavaskar Lauds Jasprit Bumrah's Mastery Spell against Pakistan

    Right from the start, Bumrah appeared to be in impeccable form as he subjected the Pakistani batsmen to a relentless onslaught of pace, bounce, and swing. During his initial five-over spell, Bumrah had the Pakistani batsmen struggling, inducing false responses from them on a remarkable 17 occasions, rendering him nearly unplayable.

    His wicket-taking prowess was on full display as he provided India with a crucial breakthrough by dismissing the in-form Imam-ul-Haq with a beautiful delivery. Bumrah’s blistering pace set the stage for India’s dominance, which was brilliantly capitalized upon by the rest of the Indian bowlers. After the fast bowlers had Pakistan reeling, Kuldeep Yadav mowed through Pakistan’s middle and lower order, resulting in Pakistan’s dismissal for a mere 128 runs. This 228-run victory represents India’s most significant ODI win over Pakistan in terms of runs.

    Also Read: Virat Kohli’s Super Century in Colombo Earns High Praise from Aakash Chopra

    Sunil Gavaskar was effusive in his praise for Jasprit Bumrah, acknowledging the bowler’s impressive rhythm against Pakistan. During an interview with Sports Tak’s Vikrant Gupta, the former cricketer-turned-commentator emphasized that India’s performance was well-rounded.

    “If the game against Pakistan had been washed out, there would have been doubts about India’s ability to reach the final. It was a comprehensive performance from India, and they secured a fantastic victory against Pakistan. India completely dominated Pakistan,” remarked Sunil Gavaskar.

    Gavaskar further commended the impressive performances of KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah. He noted that Rahul had dispelled concerns about his fitness by keeping wickets after scoring a century. In reference to Jasprit Bumrah, Gavaskar noted that even the world-class batter Babar Azam had difficulty reading the pace bowler’s deliveries.

    Sunil Gavaskar Lauds Jasprit Bumrah's Mastery Spell against Pakistan

    “KL Rahul not only scored a century but also kept wickets, dispelling all concerns about his fitness. Jasprit Bumrah was also in splendid form. His ability to swing the ball both ways while running in was exceptional. Even a world-class batsman like Babar Azam struggled to anticipate the ball’s trajectory. This Indian team is prepared, and I hope they maintain this momentum in the Asia Cup and the World Cup,” Sunil Gavaskar affirmed.

  • Breaking! India to Make 2 Huge Changes against Sri Lanka in Today Asia Cup Match

    Breaking! India to Make 2 Huge Changes against Sri Lanka in Today Asia Cup Match

    India registered a thumping victory by 228 runs against Pakistan yesterday in the Super Four clash of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. This is the biggest victory for India against Pakistan in ODIs. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul scored centuries and remained unbeaten till the end. However, both of them played for more than 25 overs yesterday and ran hard between the wickets, which could force India to make two changes in their playing 11 today against Sri Lanka.

    “I was going to ask you to keep the interview short, I’m very tired. I’m always prepared to help the team in different ways. Today, KL got a great start and my job was just to rotate strike. I take a lot of pride on trying to push for easy runs, pushing for a double is as easy as they come. (On the reverse ramp boundary) Because I crossed the 100, there was a bit of respect for that shot. I don’t play shots like that and I looked very bad playing it. Me and KL are both conventional cricketers, we don’t try fancy stuff but we can get a lot of purchase through good cricket shots. Great partnership and good signs for Indian cricket. Very happy for him to come back to ODI cricket in that manner. (On playing again tomorrow) I was pushing for those runs and happy for it, but I was thinking I need to play at 3 pm tomorrow,” Kohli said while accepting the player of the match award.

    Also read: Best World Cup 2023 Combined Playing XI: No Rohit, Babar, Maxwell, Shubman & Smith

    Kohli is tired, and KL Rahul has just returned after an injury, and that’s why India could be forced to let them relax and sit out the match against Sri Lanka. This could open up the places for Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer in the playing 11 today. However, nothing is confirmed as of now. Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid may stick with Kohli and Rahul in today’s match as well by telling them to grind it out against Sri Lanka.

    The India vs Sri Lanka match will take place at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo where India faced Pakistan. The match will begin at 3 PM sharp and will be available to watch for free on Disney+ Hotstar.

  • KL Rahul vs Shreyas Iyer: Who is India’s Best Number 4 for World Cup? Check Stats

    KL Rahul vs Shreyas Iyer: Who is India’s Best Number 4 for World Cup? Check Stats

    KL Rahul, marking his return to international cricket after a hiatus of 172 days, delivered a remarkable century against Pakistan while batting in the number 4 position during the Super 4s Asia Cup 2023 match. The debate surrounding who should occupy the crucial number 4 position in India’s ODI team has been a longstanding discussion among cricket enthusiasts and the media.

    In recent times, many had anticipated that Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul would take up the mantle in the middle-order for the Indian team in ODIs. However, with Ishan Kishan regaining form (he scored four consecutive fifties in ODIs), the Indian team management faces a conundrum regarding Shreyas Iyer’s inclusion in the lineup.

    In this article, we will explore and evaluate who has performed better for India in the middle order in ODIs.

    KL Rahul at number 4 (or) lower position in ODIs since 2020:
    Matches – 22
    Innings – 21
    Runs – 1035
    Avg – 64.68
    S.R – 97.91
    50s – 7; 100s – 3
    H.S – 112 vs NZ in Mt. Maunganui, 2020

    KL Rahul’s recent fifty-plus scores in ODIs:
    111* vs PAK in Colombo(RPS), 2023
    75* vs AUS in Mumbai(WS), 2023
    64* vs SL in Kolkata, 2023
    73 vs BAN in Mirpur, 2022

    Shreyas Iyer at number 4 (or) lower position in ODIs since 2020:
    Matches – 32
    Innings – 29
    Runs – 1169
    Avg – 44.96
    S.R – 93.89
    50s – 2; 100s – 8
    H.S – 113* vs SA in Ranchi, 2022

    Also read: ICC ODI World Cup squad of all teams revealed- Full list of players selected

    Shreyas Iyer’s recent fifty-plus scores in ODIs:
    82 vs BAN in Mirpur, 2022
    80 vs NZ in Auckland, 2022
    113* vs SA in Ranchi, 2022
    50 vs SA in Lucknow, 2022

    Shreyas Iyer in ODI matches during 2022:
    Matches – 17
    Innings – 15
    Runs – 724 
    Avg – 55.69
    S.R – 91.52
    50s – 6; 100s – 1

    Shreyas Iyer scores in ODI matches during 2023:
    28(24) vs SL in Guwahati
    28(33) vs SL in Kolkata
    38(32) vs SL in Thiruvananthapuram
    14(9) vs PAK in Pallekele – Asia Cup
    DNB vs Nepal in Pallekele – Asia Cup

    Considering KL Rahul’s recent performances at the number 4 or 5 positions in ODIs and Ishan Kishan’s impressive form, Shreyas Iyer may face a challenging path to make a comeback in this format. Unless the team opts to exclude Ishan Kishan from the Playing XI, it appears to be a tough road ahead for Iyer to secure his spot.

  • ‘Making place for KL Rahul’ Harbhajan’s statement sparks rumours about Shreyas Iyer’s injury

    ‘Making place for KL Rahul’ Harbhajan’s statement sparks rumours about Shreyas Iyer’s injury

    As India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, unveiled the lineup for the Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Pakistan, it was evident that Shreyas Iyer was notably absent from the team due to an apparent injury. Reports suggested that Iyer had suffered from back spasms, leading to his omission. Ishan Kishan retained his spot in the squad, and KL Rahul stepped in as a replacement for Iyer.

    Former India cricket stars, Harbhajan Singh and Sunil Gavaskar, expressed significant concerns regarding Iyer’s absence, particularly given his extended period on the sidelines due to injuries this year. Gavaskar emphasized that Iyer’s recurrent injuries are indeed a cause for worry, despite the current injury not appearing to be long-term. However, he did highlight the silver lining that ICC regulations allow teams to make changes to their World Cup squads in case a player becomes unavailable.

    Also read: ‘Babar is the No. 1 batter in the world’ Wasim Akram Proved Wrong in India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023

    “It’s a worry definitely. If a player is out for 5-6 months due to an injury and then has it again with a month before the World Cup, so yes it is an area of concern. Luckily, you can make changes in your World Cup team, and in case he is unfit and doesn’t recover then there will be somebody who will replace him. It is sad because he looked good in that match against Pakistan. He played a lovely cover drive,” Gavaskar said on Sports Today.

    In response to Shreyas Iyer’s absence, Harbhajan Singh made a striking statement, hinting that it might be a strategic move by the team management to make room for KL Rahul in the playing XI. Bhajji also raised concerns about the National Cricket Academy’s physiotherapy support, questioning the frequency of player injuries and their rehabilitation processes.

    “Injuries are part and parcel of the game. But getting injured that often is either bad luck or you are making a position for KL Rahul. I think getting injured at this point in time is going to hurt his position in the team as well and make things correct for KL Rahul. It is very worrying that players are getting injured again and again and it is mostly to do with the kind of training they do. So that is the question NCA needs to answer because that is where players go and rehabilitate and train themselves. And what KL Rahul brings to this table is stability in the batting line-up,” Bhajji said.

  • KL Rahul Joins Elite List of Indian Batters with Asia Cup Hundred against Pakistan

    KL Rahul Joins Elite List of Indian Batters with Asia Cup Hundred against Pakistan

    KL Rahul, in a sensational return from injury, showcased his brilliance by crafting a remarkable century. This century marked his first against Pakistan in ODIs, a testament to his resilience and a compelling comeback statement. This stellar achievement rewarded the unwavering faith vested in him by the team management, elevating his stature as he secured his sixth ODI century.

    KL Rahul Joins Elite List of Indian Batters with Asia Cup Hundred against Pakistan

    In a mere 100 balls, KL Rahul etched his name into cricketing history, achieving this remarkable milestone in his very first international match after a prolonged injury-induced hiatus. This monumental feat further solidified his place among the illustrious Indian batsmen who have achieved centuries against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. His name now resounds alongside the cricketing luminaries of Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, and Rohit Sharma.

    KL Rahul concluded his innings in unbeaten glory, amassing a total of 111 runs, while Virat Kohli dazzled with an impressive 122 not out. These extraordinary individual performances propelled India to a commanding total of 356 for 2 in their allotted 50 overs.

    KL Rahul’s approach against the formidable Pakistan bowling attack radiated aggression and determination. His partnership with Virat Kohli, culminating in a formidable 200-plus run alliance for the third wicket, highlighted the exceptional synergy between the two.

    Also Read: Biggest Defeat for Pakistan: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023 Creates a Record Galore- Full List

    Rahul’s innings was a masterclass in finesse and skill as he adeptly tackled both pacers and spinners, consistently applying pressure on Babar Azam’s resolute squad. He notched up his fifty in a mere 60 deliveries and relentlessly accelerated his scoring thereafter.

    Crucially, Rahul exuded confidence in confronting the Pakistani spinners, effectively countering part-timer Iftikhar and leg-spinner Shadab Khan. His performance also underscored improved fitness after recuperating from injury, evident in his vigorous running between the wickets.

    In the latter phase of the innings, KL Rahul embraced the role of the aggressor, diligently increasing the scoring rate while Kohli assumed the anchor’s mantle. Together, they unleashed a flurry of boundaries, sustaining a heightened level of intensity.

    KL Rahul Joins Elite List of Indian Batters with Asia Cup Hundred against Pakistan

    The decision to include KL Rahul in the XI for the Super Fours match, in lieu of Shreyas Iyer’s back ailment, proved to be a pivotal masterstroke. Rahul seized this golden opportunity, unequivocally affirming his readiness to play a pivotal role in India’s impending World Cup campaign, scheduled for later this year.

  • Asia Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka Top 3 Dream11 Team Batter Picks for Today Match

    Asia Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka Top 3 Dream11 Team Batter Picks for Today Match

    The Asia Cup 2023 will be the 16th edition of this tournament. It will be hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka jointly. A total of 6 teams including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Nepal will be participating in the tournament.

    Asia Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka Top 3 Dream11 Team Batter Picks for Today Match

    From six teams at the start of Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan have managed to reach the Super Fours. In the fourth Super Four match of the tournament, India will be squaring off against Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Sri Lanka on the 12th of September.

    Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill are among the vital players from the Indian team. Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, and Matheesha Pathirana are among the key players from the Lankan team.

    The live telecast of the India vs Sri Lanka match will be on the Star Sports Network and the live stream of the India vs Sri Lanka match will be on Disney+ Hotstar. Rohit Sharma will lead Team India, while Dasun Shanaka will lead Team Sri Lanka in the tenth match of Asia Cup 2023.

    Asia Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka Top 3 Dream11 Team Batter Picks for Today Match

    Both teams won their opening game of the Super Four stage and are placed in the first and second position in the points table, respectively. This article highlights the top three batters who should be picked in your IND vs SL fantasy prediction team.

    Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka Today Match Possible Playing 11

    Asia Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka Top 3 Dream11 Team Batter Picks for Today Match

    1) KL Rahul | IND

    KL Rahul paired up with Virat to punish the Pakistani bowlers and he did so wonderfully. He smashed 111 runs off 106 balls and remained unbeaten. Plus his wicket-keeping skills will add to the fantasy points he brings. Therefore, he is a must-have batter pick for today’s IND vs SL fantasy team.

    2) Virat Kohli | IND

    Virat Kohli is coming off a very sensational knock in the last match, where he slammed his 47th ODI century and already displayed the kind of form he has been in recent times. He can be a fantastic batter pick for your fantasy team and is also expected to perform well in today’s IND vs SL match.

    3) Shubman Gill | IND

    Except for the first match, Shubman Gill has been phenomenal in the tournament. He has scored 135 runs at a strike rate of 92.47 in three matches. He would be looking forward to keeping up his form in this game as well, so he must find a place in your fantasy side for today’s IND vs SL match.

  • IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Roars Back with 6th ODI Century, While Virat Kohli Strikes his 47th Century in One-Day Internationals

    IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Roars Back with 6th ODI Century, While Virat Kohli Strikes his 47th Century in One-Day Internationals

    In a dazzling display of cricketing prowess, KL Rahul made a triumphant return to international cricket, smashing his 6th ODI century during the riveting Asia Cup 2023 Super-Four showdown between India and Pakistan in Colombo.

    IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Roars Back with 6th ODI Century, While Virat Kohli Strikes his 47th Century in One-Day Internationals

    This right-handed maestro, who had been away from the cricketing arena for six long months, looked every bit the commanding batsman he’s known to be. With supreme confidence, he adeptly used his feet to send spinners’ deliveries soaring over the boundary ropes with resounding sixes.

    KL Rahul’s electrifying partnership with the brilliant Virat Kohli, who was in sublime form against his cherished rivals, Pakistan, proved to be the backbone of India’s innings. Their formidable union didn’t let the momentum shift back into Pakistan’s favor, despite the impressive opening partnership where both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill notched up remarkable fifties.

    Also Read: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Makes Strong Comeback with Fifty

    But the star of the show was undoubtedly Virat Kohli. The former Indian captain continued to etch his name into the annals of cricketing history, securing his 47th ODI century. With just three more centuries needed, Kohli is on the verge of surpassing the iconic Sachin Tendulkar’s world record of 49 centuries in the fifty-over format.

    Kohli’s innings was nothing short of a masterpiece, as he showcased his prowess by elegantly dispatching the ball to various corners of the ground. With impeccable placement and a remarkable ability to take quick singles and doubles, Kohli partnered seamlessly with KL Rahul, who made a sensational return to the international stage.

    Also Read: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: Virat Kohli Registers 66th ODI Fifty

    Together, they orchestrated a symphony of cricketing excellence, amassing over 200 runs for the Men in Blue on the reserve day. This remarkable partnership was built upon the solid foundation laid by the openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who had already forged a 100-plus run stand.

    India ended their innings with 356 for 2 in 50 overs, while batting first against the arch-rivals Pakistan. Rohit Sharma scored 56 runs, while Shubman Gill was out after making 58 runs. Later on, Virat and KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 122 and 111 runs on the reserve day of the IND vs PAK Asia Cup match.

  • IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Makes Strong Comeback with Fifty

    IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Makes Strong Comeback with Fifty

    KL Rahul marked his return to international cricket with a blazing half-century during the Asia Cup 2023 Super-Four clash between India and Pakistan.

    IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Makes Strong Comeback with Fifty

    Rahul, who had been absent from competitive cricket for an extended period, stepped in for Ishan Kishan in the ongoing showdown and made the most of the opportunity.

    After the dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, Rahul formed a crucial partnership of over 100 runs with former captain Virat Kohli. This latest fifty is his 14th in one-day internationals.

    KL Rahul is making a comeback to international cricket after his injury in the IPL 2023. He will hope to continue this form for the rest of the tournament and the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023.

    Related: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023: Haris Rauf Ruled Out Due to Injury

    Notably, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill had also registered half-centuries earlier, adding to India’s formidable batting display.