Interview with KL Rahul: "It obviously feels great to be compared to a legend like Dravid"

It’s not often that you see similarities between a legendary batsman and a young 20-year-old whose only credentials are of representing India at the U-19 World Cup in New Zealand.

KL Rahul isn’t just a namesake of the legendary ‘Wall’. Watch him at the nets and you would know why he has been termed the next Dravid from Karnataka. He is a technically sound batsman and his shot selection is impeccable. He opened for Karnataka in five games and played a key role opening the batting for the team, out of which three of his innings were outstanding: 73 against Delhi, 157 against Vidarbha and an unbeaten 42 against Maharastra. Though the team lost against Saurashtra in the quarters, Rahul’s 55 was quite crucial.

Dravid too sometimes takes a keen look at Rahul’s progress. When asked about the young lad, Dravid said: “He is a very talented player. He has a lot of potential and can develop well in the game and make a name of his own.”

Speaking to Sportskeeda, the youngster speaks of his commitment for the game and even admits to sharing a mutual admiration for Dravid.

Excerpts:

You have made a transition from junior cricket to the senior team. What’s the feeling been like?

It’s been quite good. I think I utilized my chances better this season. Though I got a chance to play last year, I didn’t really do well. It was important for me to get runs in every game this season and I think I played to my potential.

You have had a good year with some brilliant performances in the league. You even got a double ton playing against Rajasthan XI.

Yes. The build-up to this season’s Ranji was really good. I did struggle a little bit last year and hence I took a break and went back home (Mangalore) for two months. I trained with my coach there and worked on my confidence and technique.

Speaking of some of your contemporaries who played the junior World Cup with you, they have all got good amount of Ranji experience already. Here in Karnataka, most of you are yet to find your feet in first-class cricket. Your views on that?

I can’t really comment on the selection but the kind of competition in Karnataka to even make it to the team is higher. You can’t take your place for granted. We have to be on our toes. I don’t think Mayank (Agarwal), Karun (Nair) or I have ever been worried that they (other U-19 players) have played more than us.

Speaking of Rahul Dravid, I’m sure you are aware that you are often compared to the legend. How does that make you feel?

I was being compared a few years ago but the comparison has gotten lesser now. It obviously feels great to be compared to a legend. It is in my head most of the time that I am compared and I also feel that maybe people’s expectations from me are also much higher.

Do you talk to him or take suggestions from him before a big game?

Yes, always. Before the start of a season, I try and talk to him, catch him at the gym or something and ask him what he would do in a particular situation, and ask him for some tips to correct my flaws and stuff. Just to see him around is a great source of motivation.

Dravid and you are of two different eras. There were probably a lot lesser distractions for a teenager then as compared to the situation today. How difficult is it for you to sacrifice most of what the teens do today and continue to pursue your ambition?

I think it’s a mind thing, you know. Sacrifice is important to achieve greater things in life and if you are focused it helps a great deal. Distractions don’t get into your head. I think these things will come with age and professionalism.