IND vs AFG: Virat Kohli Couldn't Play A Chanceless Innings But KL Rahul...' - Shoaib Akhtar's Stunning Verdict On Indian Batter

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar praised KL Rahul’s exceptional performance against Australia in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023. Shoaib Akhtar highlighted that Rahul placed his innings with authority and handled the pressure in a high-voltage match.

Rahul was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knock in the team’s tournament opener. The right-handed batter scored an unbeaten 97 runs off 115 balls, including 8 fours and two sixes, while batting in challenging conditions in Chennai on Sunday, October 8.

KL Rahul Looks To Be In A Different League – Shoaib Akhtar

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Shoaib Akhtar highlighted that KL Rahul played his innings with complete control and didn’t offer any chances throughout his knock.

“The way KL Rahul asserted his authority, he looks to be in a different league. Virat Kohli played a great innings but he could not play a chanceless innings. When KL Rahul was batting, he did not give any chance throughout his innings,” Shoaib Akhtar said.

Virat Kohli played a mistimed pull shot in Josh Hazlewood’s bowling when he was batting on 12 runs. Mitchell Marsh attempted to grab the catch but was a little hesitant as wicketkeeper Alex Carey also came running forward to take the catch.

Rahul Giving Stability Was Crucial – Shoaib Akhtar

Shoaib Akhtar said that Rahul played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings under pressure. The former pacer acknowledged Rahul’s wicketkeeping skills in the match.

“Rahul hit shots when it was needed, and soaked in pressure with the situation of the game was tough. Virat Kohli’s dropped catch was the turning point yes, but KL Rahul giving stability was crucial. You play him at any number – in the middle order, and opening, he does well. Don’t forget that he kept wickets as well just before this for 50 overs.”

Rahul Is A Complete Player – Shoaib Akhtar

The Rawalpindi Express asserted that Rahul is a complete player who deserves strong support and recognition for his contributions.

“People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul is running with him too and also after keeping wickets and that needs to be talked about. KL Rahul is a complete player and needs to be backed throughout,” he concluded.

Also read: IND vs AFG: “Virat Kohli’s Experience Was Needed To Guide KL Rahul,” Says Sunil Gavaskar After India’s 6-Wicket Victory