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In the build-up to next year’s T20 World Cup, the debate around India’s perfect playing XI is heating up. Among the many points of discussion, the wicket-keeper batter’s role remains a hot topic, with names like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel and Ishan Kishan in contention. However, former England star and Delhi Capitals mentor Kevin Pietersen believed KL Rahul is not just back in the picture – he might actually be India’s best option.
KL Rahul’s batting approach in T20s: From conservative to commanding
Rahul’s T20 intent has often been questioned in the past, but 2024 has showcased a different version of the stylish right-hander. With a conscious effort to adapt his game, Rahul has become the leading run-scorer for Delhi Capitals this IPL 2025 season, blending aggression with class. Pietersen, who has engaged in deep conversations with Rahul about evolving his batting, lauded his transformation.
He pointed out that Rahul’s early cricketing education emphasized traditional techniques like playing straight and defending well, which can be tough habits to break after a certain age. Yet, Rahul has successfully reprogrammed his mindset to meet the demands of modern T20 cricket—a shift Pietersen credits to his maturity and adaptability.
Not just IPL form, but Rahul’s performances for India in ODIs, especially his finishing touches in tight games, have caught Pietersen’s eye. As formats continue to evolve rapidly, Pietersen feels Rahul’s acceptance of change and his ability to reinvent himself make him a top candidate to bat at four—a spot demanding stability, acceleration, and smart game management.
“KL has been playing in a very positive manner since…mid to late last year. We saw how he finished off a couple of the games for India and almost sealed the deal in the Champions Trophy in Dubai,” Pietersen said in the post-match press conference.
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Kevin Pietersen picks the best batting position for KL Rahul
India traditionally boast a strong lineup of explosive openers, but the number four slot remains a crucial bridge between the top-order fireworks and the finishing blows. According to Pietersen, Rahul’s current form and approach make him the perfect engine in this middle-order machine. His ability to gauge conditions, rotate strike, and shift gears when required is exactly what India will need, especially on the slower, trickier surfaces expected during the World Cup.
“I think you guys have got plenty of opening batters. You’ve got Surya who bats at the top, and you’ve got all of these guys but the way that KL Rahul is playing cricket now, he would be my first choice to bat at four and keep wicket for India,” he added.
Pietersen also highlighted that wickets haven’t been as batting-friendly this IPL season, making tactical and rhythmic batting even more essential. In such scenarios, players like Rahul, who can absorb pressure and then counter-attack, become invaluable assets. Moreover, Rahul’s calmness behind the stumps can offer India balance, experience, and a steady head in crunch moments.
With the T20 World Cup to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka—nations known for their spin-friendly tracks—Rahul’s ability to play spin and adapt his tempo could be crucial. Pietersen’s endorsement isn’t just about Rahul’s batting; it’s a nod to his all-round cricketing acumen, leadership qualities, and mental toughness, all of which could serve India well in their quest for T20 glory.
“I’ve had a lot of incredibly brilliant conversations with him about batting – a lot of deep and meaningful conversations because when you grow up as a youngster like he did and you get taught defence, elbow up, play in the V and then all of a sudden in your thirties, you’ve got to change it and you’ve got to become a different kind of player for a different format which is evolving all the time,” Pietersen concluded.
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