Team India, on Wednesday, qualified for the Super Four stage in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 after defeating Hong Kong at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The likes of Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav were the star of the night, smashing respective half-centuries to power India to a comfortable victory.
While Kohli and Surykuamar earned appreciation from all corners, opener KL Rahul was at receiving end for his batting display. Rahul, who led the Indian side in the Zimbabwe ODI series before making his way into the Asia Cup 2022, hasn’t yet found his mojo.
In the opening game against arch-rivals Pakistan, Rahul was dismissed for a golden duck, and in the match against Hong Kong, the Karnataka stalwart scored only 36 runs. Rahul did spend time some time in the middle but consumed plenty of deliveries as his strike rate was below 100 (92.30).
No wonder Rahul was criticised by the fans on social media as they were hoping to see him scoring some quickfire runs, at least in front of Hong Kong. Despite Rahul’s struggle with the form, Suryakumar has backed his teammate stating the Bengaluru-born has only just returned from injury and might need some time to find his form.
Surya was also asked if he would be seen opening the innings as part of Team India’s experiments. To this, Suryakumar cheekily replied and said: “(Smiles) Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye? (So you mean to say that KL should be dropped?).”
The Pune-born cricketer, who scored an unbeaten 68 off 26 in the game, said he is ready to bat at any position.
“He (Rahul) is coming back from injury, he also needs some time. We have some time right now. As far as I am concerned, I have always said that I am very flexible to bat at any number. I have told the coach and captain that make me bat at any number, but just play me,” added Suryakumar.
