Wicketkeeper-batsman for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) is keen to make his numbers count in the ongoing twelfth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The top-order batsman has set his sights solely on the IPL 2019 season. He also revealed a couple of interesting things about his batting partner and ‘Universe Boss’, Chris Gayle.
Meanwhile, he will partake in the opener of KXIP against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Monday (March 25). His objective is to win games for the Punjab-based franchise.
Entire Focus on the IPL 2019: KL Rahul
Moreover, the 26-year-old right-handed batsman Rahul revealed he hasn’t set any individual goals whatsoever.
Interestingly, it’s also an opportunity for players like Rahul to impress the BCCI selectors to get featured in the 2019 World Cup squad for Team India.
“I just want to focus on IPL and try and win as many matches for my team. I don’t set personal goals,” Rahul told PTI.
The burly batsman in Gayle has often entertained his fans on the field and off the field. He has always been in a jolly mood to cheer up his teammates.
On similar lines, Rahul recalled Gayle is a bit mischievous behind the scenes.
Also, Rahul reiterated Gayle is best in the business in the shortest version of the game.
The 38-year-old Gayle has featured in 112 IPL matches. He has amassed 3,994 runs to score at the batting average of 41.17. He slammed six hundreds and 24 half-centuries under his belt.
Meanwhile, he’s six runs away to scale 4000-run mark in the IPL. So much so, his IPL strike-rate is 150.71, and it is enough to reveal how dangerous he’s as a batsman in the T20 cricket, in particular.
“Gayle is the best T20 batsman the game has ever had. But he is always up to a mischief and tries to pull my legs. He does not seem like a senior player in the dressing room but in fact, he is the naughtiest and most mischievous player in a dressing room,” Rahul asserted.
KL Rahul enjoys Chris Gayle’s partnership:
Rahul, who’s known for changing the gears, said he’s happy to play alongside Gayle. He added Gayle has made him learn important things and is keen to rub the shoulders in the ongoing season.
In the past, the duo has batted together for their former franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
“I have played with Gayle for quite a while. We had an opportunity to bat together for a few years in RCB and he considered me as a 21-year-old boy. I have learnt a lot from him. I love his company,” he added.
With brute force in Gayle returning to the fold, Rahul maintained Gayle has always backed himself to win games for his team.
“Each year as he grows older, his energy is getting more and more exciting for us. I am looking for more and more partnerships together,” said Rahul on Gayle.
Earlier, KXIP coach Mike Hesson has suggested Rahul to not think too much while considering the 2019 World Cup campaign.
In the previous edition, Rahul has featured in all 14 games which saw him accumulating 659 runs at an average of impressive 54.91. Besides, he has slammed six half-centuries to his name.
Also, in overall 53 matches since 2012, Rahul has scored 1384 runs at an average of 38.44.