Cheteshwar Pujara lauds KL Rahul’s performances in BGT 2024-25, says he should only open for India now

India’s veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has showered praise on KL Rahul for his consistent performances in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Test series against Australia. Rahul top-scored for India with 84 runs in the first innings to help the visitors avoid the follow-on in the third Test at Brisbane, which ended in a draw. 

The flamboyant batter has looked the most impressive Indian batter in the first three Test matches against the Aussies, returning with scores of 26, 77, 37, 7, and 84.

The right-hander from Karnataka has amassed 3216 runs in 56 Test matches at an average of 34.58. Pujara noted it is not easy to open the innings after batting in the middle order.

“It’s not easy to open after coming from No. 6. When you are batting in the middle order and you suddenly get a challenge to play as an opener, it’s a very good opportunity for him but a challenge as well. He prepared for it before this tour and the execution is visible there,” Pujara said on Star Sports.

“So he made a proper game plan and didn’t err in that. That’s the sign of a good player. KL Rahul should only open for India now. His batting position shouldn’t be changed going forward,” Pujara added.

Pujara observed that Rahul is showing self-confidence and the determination that is required to succeed in Australia. Rahul has looked solid in his technique and has batted at the top of his game.

“He is doing classic Test match batting. He is looking the standout opener across both teams. He is showing self-confidence and the determination that is required a lot in Australia,” he said.

“When the new ball moves so much when there is help for the bowlers from the wicket, you have self-doubts, as to how to play those deliveries and whether you would be successful or not. However, if you see his impact points, he didn’t make any changes to his game plan,” Pujara observed.

The fourth Test match between India and Australia will be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground from 26th December.