'Versatile player': Glenn McGrath on KL Rahul's batting adaptability
What's the story
Australian legend Glenn McGrath has praised India's KL Rahul for his remarkable adaptability in the batting order. Despite being shuffled around, Rahul has managed to remain a key batter for the Indian team. In the 1st ODI against Australia in Perth, he was moved to No. 6 instead of his usual No. 5 spot, where he has scored most of his runs with an average over 55.
Versatility recognition
McGrath on Rahul's batting versatility
Speaking on the Fast Bowling Cartel YouTube channel, McGrath said, "I think he's nearly batted at all 11 positions at some stage. It must be tough for him to adapt." "But he's one of those versatile players. He top-scored for India in fairly tough conditions. From opening down to I am not sure how low he has batted. Sometimes that can mess your confidence up, but I think for him, maybe he's just used to it and just adapts."
Match performance
Rahul top-scored for India in the 1st ODI
In the 26-over match against Australia in Perth, India scored 136 runs for nine wickets. Rahul was India's top scorer with a knock of 38 runs off 31 balls. Rahul, with 2 sixes and as many fours, helped India rack up 136/9 after they slumped to 84/5. However, the Aussies later won the match by seven wickets.
Career overview
Rahul's best position in the order
Rahul has filled in several batting slots since making his debut in 2016. Right from opening the batting to playing at No. 7, he has seen it all. The Indian batter has scored the majority of his runs at No. 5. According to ESPNcricinfo, Rahul has hammered 1,299 runs at 56.47 with 2 centuries and 9 fifties at this position. Rahul also has 500-plus runs at No. 4 (558) and 1 (669).