KL Rahul’s Form a Worry: Former MINISter Calls for Action from Dravid and Rohit

KL Rahul’s struggles with the bat in IPL 2024 have become a major talking point. The stylish opener, who captains Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has managed only 460 runs in 12 matches at a strike rate of 136.09, a far cry from his usual dominance. This poor form has coincided with LSG’s inconsistent run, raising questions about Rahul’s captaincy and his place in the Indian team.

Former Mumbai Indians (MI) fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan recently weighed in on the issue, delivering a “blunt message” to head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma. McClenaghan, known for his outspoken nature, believes this slump could be a turning point for Rahul’s career.

Is This a Virat Kohli Repeat for KL Rahul?

McClenaghan compared KL Rahul’s situation to Virat Kohli’s recent struggles. Both batsmen, known for their elegance and ability to anchor the innings, have been criticized for their conservative approach and lack of intent.

“I think this is similar to what we have seen with Virat Kohli,” said McClenaghan on ESPNcricinfo. “He’s got to get past the stage where he feels like he’s the only person who can score runs.”

McClenaghan believes Rahul might be burdened by the captaincy, feeling the responsibility to carry the team on his shoulders. This, in turn, might be hindering his natural attacking instincts.

“It looks like he’s carrying the whole team on his back, thinking that if he doesn’t bat the innings, they are not going to get a score,” he added. “If he does get out, they are a long way behind where they need to be.”

Can Dravid and Rohit Unlock KL Rahul’s Potential?

McClenaghan suggested that a strong message from the Indian team management, particularly Dravid and Sharma, could be crucial in helping Rahul rediscover his form.

“I think they need to actually say ‘We are not going to drop you if you have this intent all the time,'” he stressed. “If they can unlock that, he is one of the best players going around and he will bounce back.”

This reassurance, McClenaghan believes, would allow Rahul to play with greater freedom and express his natural talent.

However, the question remains: is a change in captaincy for LSG the answer? While some experts believe a lighter workload could benefit Rahul, others argue that captaincy could be a learning experience that helps him mature as a leader. Ultimately, the decision rests with the LSG management.

A Crucial Phase for Rahul: World Cup Looming

With the ODI World Cup scheduled for later this year in India, Rahul’s form is a major concern for the Indian team. He is a key player in India’s top order, and his experience and elegance are invaluable assets.

A string of good performances in the remaining IPL matches and the upcoming international series can silence his critics and solidify his place in the World Cup squad. However, continued inconsistency might force the selectors to explore other options.

The upcoming weeks will be crucial for KL Rahul. Can he overcome this challenging phase and silence his doubters? The answer will not only impact his role in the IPL but also determine his position in the Indian team for the marquee World Cup event.