Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa reckons it will be a major advantage for India to have a match-winner like KL Rahul in form in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Rahul returned with scores of 4, 9, and 9 in the first three matches of the T20 World Cup against Pakistan, Netherlands, and South Africa.
However, the flamboyant batter has returned back to form as he scored 50 runs off 32 balls against Bangladesh. The Indian opener carried the same form as he scored 51 runs off 35 balls against Zimbabwe at the SCG, Sydney on Sunday to give a good start to his team.
In fact, Rahul had also peaked in the later stages of the Super 12 in the previous edition of the T20 World Cup and he has done the same again in Australia. Rahul has all the experience under his belt and he received the backing of the team’s captain and the support staff when he struggled to deliver in the first three matches.
Robin Uthappa said on ESPN Cricinfo, “Anyone who knows and recognizes KL Rahul’s ability with the bat would know that he is a match-winner. And when he comes off, the results he produces will help in the team winning games. He can do it singlehandedly as well. He has begun to do that just at the right time.
“It’s the backend of the World Cup and to have a match-winner like him in form is absolutely amazing for India going into the semifinals.”
On the other hand, former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower has backed KL Rahul to deliver against the England bowlers. Rahul likes extra pace on the ball and Flower feels he will do well against Mark Wood.
“We did see a string of lowish scores for KL at a certain stage in this tournament. But he looks in good enough nick now to make significant contributions for India. I don’t think KL Rahul’s approach has necessarily changed because of the sort of slightly lesser opposition that he has faced.
“He’s got an excellent game matched up against the England attack. Mark Wood’s pace is not a problem for him. He is matching up really nicely against the England bowlers.”
India will take on England in the second semifinal at Adelaide Oval on Thursday.
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