VVS Laxman slams KL Rahul: Here's why
What's the story
Indian opener KL Rahul has been on the receiving end, following a poor show in the just-concluded Test series against the Windies. While he did get off to a sound start, scoring 44 in the opener, his performance diminished in the next three innings, scoring 38, 13 and 6. Meanwhile, Indian legend VVS Laxman has said that Rahul has 'often flattered to deceive'.
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He is no longer a newcomer to Test cricket: Laxman
"The greater concern is over KL Rahul. His ability is never under question, and he is no longer a newcomer to Test cricket. He has got numerous opportunities, but he has often flattered to deceive," wrote Laxman in his column for Times of India.
Pujara and Pant
Laxman urges Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant to fire
Laxman further opined that questions continue about the Indian batting order. While he was surprised at Cheteshwar Pujara's modest outing in this series, he backed him to perform in the upcoming matches of the season. Meanwhile, he also said that more is expected out of young wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant, who managed to score just 58 runs in the series.
Fascinating Vihari
Laxman all-praise for Hanuma Vihari's fascinating performance
Laxman showered immense praise on young batsman Hanuma Vihari, who topped in the series, scoring 289 runs. He also stated that playing so much for First-Class domestic cricket has instilled quite an amount of temperament. This is allowing him to score runs freely. "Vihari has been at home, enhancing his reputation as a Test batsman with every outing," noted Laxman.
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"I look forward to greater things from him (Vihari)"
"He [Vihari] is very calm and mature at the crease, looks to dominate the spinners with exemplary use of the feet, and is assured against fast bowling. I look forward to greater things from him," asserted Laxman.
Bowlers
Laxman praises Bumrah, along with Ishant and Shami
Laxman was also impressed with the bowling department, especially pacer Jasprit Bumrah. However, alongside Bumrah, he also praised Ishant Sharma for his consistency, along with his five-wicket haul and his maiden Test half-century. "He and Shami are experienced pros and form, alongside Bumrah, a pace attack as good as, if not better than, any going around in world cricket," reckoned Laxman.