KL Rahul credits Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers for improving his batting
After being part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2015 IPL season, KL Rahul was picked up by Royal Challengers Bangalore this year. Though his new team lost out to Sunrisers in the title clash, the 24-year-old has revealed that sharing the dressing room with the likes of Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers enabled him to improve as a batsman.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the Indian team’s departure to Zimbabwe for a limited-overs tour, the Karnataka cricketer sounded eager to grab the opportunity and seal a spot for himself.
Rahul enthused, “I spent time with Virat (Kohli) and AB (de Villiers) and asked them questions about what they thought I should do to improve my cricket and be successful in the shortest format. Their ideas and feedback did help me in improving my batting.”
His team-mate Mandeep Singh also echoed those sentiments. The Punjab batsman affirmed, “I have been lucky to play alongside both AB (de Villiers) and Virat (Kohli). The two years which I have been with them is helping me. Specifically, I spoke about head positioning with AB and he helped me. I am trying to match fitness level of Virat.”
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Having been selected for both the Zimbabwe and West Indies tours, Rahul did not want to look too far. He admitted, “Not going to worry about Test matches, this is my first ODI series with the Indian team. So, I will focus on doing well there and figure out how I will be successful in Zimbabwe.”
The stylish right-hander added, “Once we go there, I don't know how the wickets are in Zimbabwe. It will be definitely challenging for the opening batsmen and it's a responsibility that I have enjoyed to go out there and give a solid start to my team.”
Rahul expressed a desire to learn the intricacies of wicket-keeping from skipper MS Dhoni. Also a handy gloves man, he hoped, “About wicket-keeping, I have enjoyed whatever little bit I could do and contribute for RCB. I will have to work a little harder. I will get some time with MS Dhoni in Zimbabwe and my plan is to try to work with him on my wicket-keeping skills and see what feedback he has for me.”
India’s trip to Zimbabwe comprises of 3 ODIs and as many T20Is all of which will take place in Harare beginning on Saturday.