Cricbuzzteam, Cricket enthusiasts often wonder about the intensity of facing top-tier bowlers in the nets. KL Rahul, the talented middle-order batter for the Indian cricket team, sheds light on the daunting experience of confronting pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami during practice sessions.
As an unbeaten India gears up to face the Netherlands in the final league fixture of the ODI World Cup, KL Rahul reflects on the undeniable challenge posed by Bumrah and Shami. Despite India’s stellar performance securing a spot in the semifinals, Rahul acknowledges the lethal prowess of these two key bowlers.
When asked to choose between facing Bumrah and Shami in the nets, KL Rahul provides a straightforward response – “Both are deadly.” This statement underlines the formidable reputation that these bowlers have built for themselves, not only in matches but also in the practice sessions.
Bowling Dominance: Shami and Bumrah’s World Cup Stats
Delving into the statistics, Shami boasts 16 wickets in four matches with an impressive average of seven and an economy rate of 5.30. Meanwhile, Bumrah has contributed 15 wickets in nine matches, maintaining an average of 15.53 and an economy rate of 3.65. These outstanding figures solidify their status as India’s standout bowlers in the World Cup.
KL Rahul Preference: Batsman Over Wicketkeeper
KL Rahul, known for his versatility, expresses a preference for his role as a batsman over that of a wicketkeeper. With a remarkable average of 48.76 in 69 ODIs, including six centuries and 16 fifties, Rahul’s batting prowess takes center stage.
In the ongoing WC 2023, KL Rahul has been in splendid form, amassing 245 runs in seven innings at an average of 61.25. His standout performance includes a stellar knock of 97* against Australia, a match where he played a pivotal role in India’s six-wicket victory.
When asked to choose between his comeback knock of 111* against Pakistan in the Asia Cup and his 97* against Australia in the WC opener, KL Rahul leans towards the latter. The resilience displayed in the Australia match, where India was 2/3 while chasing 200, holds a special place in Rahul’s cricketing journey.
Spin Challenge: Jadeja Over Kuldeep
In the realm of spin, KL Rahul identifies Ravindra Jadeja as the tougher challenge while keeping wickets, despite Kuldeep Yadav being presented as another option. Jadeja’s 14 wickets in eight matches, including best figures of 5/33, showcase his dominance in the World Cup.
KL’s Cricket Preferences: Shots and Sports
Revealing his cricketing preferences, KL Rahul discloses that the On Drive is his favorite shot, but he believes he executes the Pick-Up Shot even better. Additionally, he chooses football over tennis as his favorite non-cricket sport.
When presented with choices between legends, KL opts for football icon David Beckham over tennis great Roger Federer. London wins over Melbourne as his favorite non-Indian city, and in the realm of entertainment, action movies triumph over drama for the dynamic batter.
In a fun twist, KL Rahul declares his allegiance to Batman over Superman, adding a touch of personality to his off-field preferences.
KL Rahul’s insights provide a glimpse into the challenges and choices that shape his cricketing journey. Facing the lethal duo of Bumrah and Shami in the nets, excelling as a batsman, and navigating spin challenges, Rahul’s narrative adds depth to the cricketing spectacle.
Also Read:- ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Most Wickets, Runs, Fours, Sixes and Fifties