Navjot Singh Sidhu, commenting on KL Rahul’s batting order during the Champions Trophy, said that even a spare tyre isn’t used as much as the star batter.
Highlights:
- Sidhu joked that even a spare tire is used more than KL Rahul.
- KL Rahul’s crucial 42* guided India to victory over Australia in the semifinal.
KL Rahul, unfazed by his changing batting order, is determined to give his best for Team India in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. He played a crucial knock in India’s decisive win over Australia in the semifinal. His aggressive batting and vital partnership with Virat Kohli during a tense chase proved invaluable. Rahul’s unbeaten 42 off 34 balls sealed India’s spot in the final, set for March 9.
After India’s four-wicket win, Navjot Singh Sidhu praised KL Rahul. He highlighted Rahul’s adaptability and selfless play. Sidhu lauded his ability to adjust to different batting roles. Rahul has proved his versatility throughout his career.
Navjot Singh Sidhu’s critical take on KL Rahul’s batting order
KL Rahul’s versatility has defined his career. He has excelled in multiple batting roles, whether opening, stabilizing the middle order, or finishing games. His adaptability stood out in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he shifted between positions, playing as an opener, at number three, and even at number five in a Test match. In the Champions Trophy, Rahul has been consistent, often finishing innings strongly. Notably, in two of his three innings, he remained unbeaten in the 40s with an impressive strike rate of 96.36.
Meanwhile, in a candid assessment, Navjot Singh Sidhu remarked that KL Rahul has been treated worse than a “spare tyre,” suggesting that his talent and adaptability have been used without proper recognition or strategic consideration.
Navjot Singh Sidhu, speaking on Star Sports as quoted by News18, criticized KL Rahul’s frequent role changes, saying, “Even the spare tyre is not used as much. You play him as a wicketkeeper, as No. 6, as an opener, then when BGT comes, you play him at No. 3. Then you tell him to open. I tell you one thing—opening in ODIs is the easiest, but doing it in Tests is the toughest. He is a selfless player.”
Rahul’s versatility shone again in the high-stakes semifinal against Australia. He played a calm and calculated innings, keeping India steady in a tense chase. After Virat Kohli’s dismissal, he took on the anchor role, focusing on strike rotation. This allowed Hardik Pandya to play aggressively, helping India chase down the target successfully.
As India gear up for the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, Rahul’s role in the middle order will be crucial. The team will count on him to step up and deliver if the situation demands.
