India’s Test opening batsman, KL Rahul recently admitted that he is ready to step into the dual role for Kings XI Punjab during the impending edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).
Meanwhile, Punjab had the biggest purse in this year’s two-day-long mega-auction. While it did allow them to make some good buys, they missed roping a specialist wicket-keeper.
Now with the tournament closing in, KXIP will expect KL Rahul to slot in behind the stumps. Though it will not be the first time Rahul, the fact that he is fairly irregular at this might cause the team a few concerns.
Previously, Rahul shared the role of wicket-keeping at the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2016.
Moreover, it was his breakthrough season in his T20 career scoring 97 runs with four half-centuries.
More importantly, Rahul took five catches and had four stumpings to his name. He also kept for Karnataka recently in their Vijay Hazare final against Saurashtra.
Although Rahul admitted that it will take a toll on his body, but said that he is ready to step in. Rahul, also, is taking this as a challenge and work on.
“This won’t be the first time that I am taking on a dual responsibility. It will be hard on the body, as I don’t keep regularly through the year but that’s what you do seeing the demand of the team. You can take it up as a challenge and work on keeping. It’s a team sport and you have to be ready to take up the role that the team wants,” Rahul said.
The 25-year-old Rahul, who missed the entire 2017 IPL is looking forward to this opportunity.
“I am looking forward to be behind the stumps, sharing my feedback with captain, and try and score also for the team,” he added.
The swashbuckling batsman Rahul averages 45.45 in 15 T20 internationals and has the highest score of 110.
However, KL Rahul is yet to cement his place in all the formats. He said this IPL his focus will be more on winning matches rather than trying to impress someone or showcase his talent.
“I am with a new team and want to focus on winning. With a kind of competition around team India, I don’t think anybody is a sure shot. So my focus will be rather on my team,” he concluded.
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