Indian batter KL Rahul has opened up about his early career struggles, revealing that he initially tried to emulate big-hitting styles, despite not being naturally inclined towards it. However, observing the success of legends like Rahul Dravid and Kane Williamson , who remained true to their natural games, made him reassess his approach.
KL Rahul admitted that in his younger days, he often attempted to be someone he wasn’t, trying to fit into a mold that didn’t suit him. This realization sparked a transformation in his mindset, allowing him to evolve into the stylish and effective batter he is today, embracing his authentic playing style.
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KL Rahul on how he changed his game in the shortest format
“I think I grew as an individual and as a player. As a youngster, I tried really hard to be someone I wasn’t, trying to hit big sixes to prove I could,” Rahul said in an exclusive interview on Star Sports.
“It just wasn’t coming naturally. What changed for me was watching Rahul Dravid in one of the IPL seasons around 2011 or 2012. He stayed true to his technique, and he was one of the best batsmen. Seeing him do well in one-day and T20 cricket without changing his game changed something in me,” he added.
“I also spent time with Kane Williamson at SRH. He didn’t get many chances, but he’d still go back and play amazing white-ball innings for New Zealand.
“Watching Dravid and Williamson, I realized I didn’t need to try so hard. I had certain gifts I could use in T20 cricket to find success.”
“Once I embraced that mindset, things clicked for me. In the 2016 IPL, I had Virat and AB’s guidance—the best T20 players around. Just talking to them at training about my game made a difference. Once the performances started coming, the confidence followed.”
“I had just debuted in T20Is for India and scored that 100 in Miami against the West Indies, so I had some recent T20 runs and confidence behind me. It was a new franchise, and I was excited, especially after the high price tag they paid, which I hadn’t expected.”
“That season came with pressure, being a new team and all, but my mind was clear at that time. I was confident in my game, knew what I had to do, and kept it simple. 2018 was probably the best T20 year for me.
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“Expectations were mostly from Kings XI Punjab due to the high price tag, but beyond that, I was free to play my game, without feeling like I had to take responsibility. That allowed me to play with freedom, and while it was a great year personally, as a team, we struggled.” Rahul, who led Lucknow Super Giants since its inception, was released by the franchise. He is expected to invoke a bidding war at the mega auction in Riyadh on November 24 and 25.
(With PTI inputs)
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