KL Rahul reflects on preparation, challenges ahead of Adelaide Test

India’s wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, fresh off a strong performance in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against Australia, shared insights on his preparation and expectations for the upcoming pink-ball Test in Adelaide. India, leading the series 1-0 after a commanding 295-run victory in Perth, will face Australia in the day-night encounter starting Friday.

Rahul revealed that he was informed ahead of the series about his role as an opener, which allowed him ample time to prepare. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, he said, “Opening is something I’ve done for a long time in my career. I just had to practice more and go back to what worked for me.” Rahul credited practice games, including an India A match, for helping him get accustomed to the conditions.

His preparation paid off in Perth, where he scored a gritty 77 off 176 balls, featuring a record-breaking 201-run opening partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal. Reflecting on his innings, Rahul emphasized that focusing on his process was key to regaining his form after missing the final two Tests against New Zealand earlier this year.

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Ahead of his first pink-ball Test, Rahul acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the format. “The pink ball feels harder and quicker than the red ball. Picking it up off the bowler’s hand is a bit more difficult,” he said. The team has been focused on adapting to these nuances during practice sessions, particularly with the expected seam movement and swing under lights.

Rahul shared that he has been consulting teammates with pink-ball experience for insights and emphasized the importance of staying adaptable. “I’m going in with a clean slate to see what happens and face up to whatever comes my way,” he added.

Having faced criticism for inconsistent performances in recent years, Rahul is eager to cement his place in the playing XI. When asked about his role in the team, he said, “I just want to be in the eleven. Fit me in wherever—I just want to bat and contribute to the team.”

Also See: India Cricket Schedule | Australia Cricket Schedule

India will also aim to erase memories of their infamous 2020 Adelaide pink-ball Test, where they were bowled out for 36, their lowest-ever Test score. However, with a confident performance in Perth and a motivated squad led by Ben Stokes, India appears well-prepared to take on the challenges in Adelaide.