Here's what KL Rahul said about his World Cup dream
What's the story
Indian opener KL Rahul's hard work in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019 paid off, as he sealed a spot in the squad for the ICC World Cup 2019. However, he is not expected to get game time, as India have a settled top-order. As he prepares for his maiden World Cup stint, Rahul talked about his World Cup dream. Here's more.
IPL form
Rahul has been ruthless in IPL 2019
Considering Rahul's IPL 2019 form, he was ruthless, as he finished as Punjab's highest run-scorer. He scored 593 runs in 14 innings at an average of 53.90, including a century and six half-centuries. However, he is yet to fire in ODIs, as he has scored just 343 runs in 13 innings at an average of 34.30.
2011 aftermath
2011 World Cup win made me more focused: Rahul
Rahul recalled how the 2011 World Cup win by Men In Blue was special for billions of people, and how it brought everyone together. He said following the win, he became more focused. "I knew what a World Cup could do to the country, how big it is and how valuable it is to be part of a World Cup dream," he said.
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Looking forward to hopefully inspiring billions of people again: Rahul
"To be here after eight years representing my country means the world to me. I am looking forward to hopefully inspiring billions of people again and to win the World Cup would be the icing on the cake," Rahul added.
1983 potential
Rahul believes current Indian side can repeat 1983 feat
Rahul believes that the current Indian side has the potential to repeat Kapil Dev-led team's historic 1983 feat. He feels players like Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Jasprit Bumrah can play a defining role this term. "To be part of this team is incredible," he asserted. The current Indian squad has only two players from the 2011 winning squad, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.
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Rahul hopeful of his hard work to pay off
"Hopefully the hard work we have put in over the past two or three years means we can go out there, enjoy ourselves and win the World Cup," Rahul concluded.
Playing XI
Rahul not guaranteed a Playing XI spot
Albeit Rahul might have been selected in the World Cup's 15-member squad, he is not guaranteed a playing XI spot. Although it would be interesting to see who gets the number four batting spot, chances are Vijay Shankar would get the nod ahead of Rahul, as he is a handy all-rounder. Rahul, despite his commendable form, is likely to act as a back-up.