KL Rahul Playfully Warns Friends And Family For World Cup 2023 Tickets, Says 'I Am Not Going To Respond'

Indian stand-in skipper for Australia ODIs, KL Rahul quipped that he will not respond to the requests from family and friends for match tickets for the much-awaited ODI World Cup 2023 at home. KL Rahul clarified that this decision is not meant to be rude, but to stay focused on the game.

KL Rahul is currently leading India in the ongoing three-match ODI series against Australia at home. The wicketkeeper-batter led the team to a convincing five-wicket victory in the opening ODI in Mohali. The hosts took a 1-0 lead in their final series before the World Cup.

Just Want To Stay Away – KL Rahul

Speaking ahead of the second ODI against Australia, KL Rahul made a cheeky remark regarding requests for World Cup match tickets from family and friends.

“If anyone messages me for match tickets, I am not going to respond,” KL Rahul told JioCinema.

“[I am] not trying to be arrogant or rude, just want to stay away from that and focus on the game. This is a message to all my family members and friends, if you’re thinking about messaging me for tickets, please don’t,” he added.

India will host the upcoming ODI World Cup from October 5 to November 19. The tournament will be significant as it is the first ICC ODI event entirely played in India. They co-hosted the ODI World Cup in 1987 and 2011 with neighbouring nations.

They’ve Got Some Great Players – KL Rahul

KL Rahul emphasized that facing Australia in the ODI series is ideal preparation for the upcoming World Cup due to visiting team players’ experience with Indian conditions.

“I think so, they’re coming into the World Cup as one of the favourites. They’ve got some great players, some we play IPL with and we can see the impact they have,” Rahul further added.

“They come to India a lot, they know our pitches and conditions as well as we do. This series will all be about how each team brings their skills to the forefront. So, yes, really excited about the series and this is the best way to challenge ourselves before the World Cup.”

Rahul will be seen in action when India takes on Australia in the second ODI at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday, September 24.