Childhood coach Samuel Jayaraj lauds KL Rahul for adapting to different roles ahead of England tour

KL Rahul’s childhood coach Samuel Jayaraj showered praise on his ward for being open to different roles across formats for the Indian team. Rahul has been asked to bat at different batting positions and has also been given the wicket-keeping role in the 50-over version. Rahul has successfully embraced every role for the side.

Jayaraj hailed KL Rahul for playing a key role in India’s success in the Champions Trophy. Rahul scored 140 runs in four innings at an average of 140 in the eight-team tournament.

Meanwhile, Rahul recently scored 539 runs in 13 matches of IPL 2025 at an average of 53.90 and a strike rate of 149.72. 

The flamboyant batter scored a fine knock of 116 runs in the second unofficial Test against England Lions.

Samuel Jayaraj said as quoted by Hindustan Times, “If you ask me, as a coach, this isn’t surprising. He was always ready. He was also a wicketkeeper. He would smartly rotate strike, taking singles on the fourth, fifth, or sixth ball, then face the next over. He follows instructions really well. If you noticed in the Champions Trophy, his role was very specific—and he executed it perfectly.

“In fact, despite having a very good ODI World Cup, he wasn’t picked for the T20 World Cup. He didn’t crib or get frustrated. Because he has seen these things as a kid. That’s why he’s so strong today both mentally and technically.”

Jayaraj added a more mature KL Rahul will be seen on the England tour. Rahul is one of the most senior batters and he is going to hold the key after Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s retirement.

“I always tell him just one thing — enjoy and become. That’s always been my message, my mantra, even my password, you could say. You have to enjoy what you do. You have to be happy. If you’re not happy, your body simply won’t respond the way you want it to. In England, a more and more matured KL Rahul will be seen.”

The opening Test match between India and England will be played at Leeds, Headingley, from June 20 onwards.