"KL Rahul didn't show from any aspect that he is just a good white-ball player" - Ramiz Raja
Ramiz Raja has heaped praise on KL Rahul following his sensational hundred against England in the second Test at Lord's. The former Pakistan batsman was particularly impressed by how Rahul applied himself in the middle.
India were asked to bat in tough conditions. However, KL Rahul trusted his defence and saw off the new-ball spells from the England quicks. Raja lauded the 28-year-old for the way he showed patience and respected the conditions.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Ramiz Raja explained how well KL Rahul played under challenging conditions.
"KL Rahul played a brilliant technical innings. He trusted his defence and that is crucial if you want to be successful in England. KL Rahul didn't show from any aspect that he is just a good white-ball player. He changed gears with perfection and showed how to bat in English conditions. It was a top-class innings from a mental aspect."
KL Rahul has set a great platform for India: Ramiz Raja
KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 127 at the end of play on Thursday, will look to build on the strong foundation and score more runs. India finished the day at 276-3 and Raja feels Rahul's knock has put the visitors in a great position to call the shots.
The former Pakistan batsman feels that if India are able to reach a score of 350-450 runs, then it would be difficult for a relatively weak England batting unit to make a strong comeback in the Test.
"KL Rahul has set a great platform and India have a huge advantage. If they are able to post 350-450 runs then it will be difficult for England to survive in this Test match."
The first session on Day 2 will be crucial as England will look to pick up early wickets. India, on the other hand, would want KL Rahul to continue his superb innings and help the team post a huge total.