KL Rahul, India’s wicketkeeper-batter, scored a scintillating hundred while batting at No. 6 for only the second time in his Test career. At the end of the second day’s play at SuperSport Park in Centurion, he provided valuable insights into batting in the middle order and the art of playing long innings. Rahul, known for his versatility, highlighted the significance of staying adaptable and embracing the dynamic nature of the game.
Rahul had ended the first day unbeaten on 70, after steering India to 208-8 at stumps. On Wednesday, he went on to complete his century in remarkable fashion with a six. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna faced a total of 30 deliveries and scored a combined total of only 5 runs. But those 30 balls were enough for Rahul to reach the three-figure mark. He skillfully attacked the right balls and left the others, ultimately achieving a well-deserved eighth Test century.
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Dean Elgar’s brilliant century in reply to KL Rahul’s 101, takes South Africa to a lead of 11 runs at the end of Day 2.
South Africa 256/5 with Elgar and Jansen at the crease. @CricSubhayan reviews Day 2 from the ground.@ThumsUpOfficial #SAvsIND #SAvIND #BoxingDayTest pic.twitter.com/YFwst7gIQB
— RevSportz (@RevSportz) December 27, 2023
“The key to batting in the middle-order and playing long is not to plan too much,” he said at the press conference after play. “You can’t plan that much. There’s a game situation that tells you how to play in that time and moment. You have to remain free and empty. You need to be aware that you might have to bat with the tail.”
With one set batter in Dean Elgar (140*), South Africa currently holds the advantage. According to Rahul, batting became easier as the pitch eased out. However, he remained cautious, acknowledging that the conditions could change pretty quickly, especially with the cracks opening up on the wicket.
“In the morning, after facing those 7-8 overs, I sensed that the pitch had slightly eased,” he said. “Nevertheless, it’s important to note that conditions at this venue can undergo swift changes, particularly with the development of cracks.”
Rahul sustained a thigh injury in last season’s IPL, leading to his absence from both the World Test Championship final and the West Indies tour that followed.
The 31-year-old Rahul shared that during that enforced injury hiatus earlier this year, he dedicated time to personal development. He also acknowledged the support he received from individuals close to him during the injury-induced break.
“In international cricket, you face challenges not only as a player but also as an individual with a personality,” he said. “So, when I was out of the game, I focused on personal growth. I was fortunate to have people around me who provided support.”
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