“I am confident and positive going into the series: KL Rahul

KL Rahul was rewarded for his excellent time in the recently concluded IPL 9 with a place in the ODI team for the tour of Zimbabwe. The Karnataka batsman has got the opportunity in the limited overs format after making his Test debut more than a year ago.

He made his debut at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground against the Australians; MS Dhoni was playing his final Test. Having been selected for the limited-overs tour to Zimbabwe, the 24-year-old shared his delight at playing under the veteran’s captaincy after some time.

In an interview with Deccan Chronicle, Rahul says he was ‘sad’ about Dhoni’s retirement from the longest format as he wanted to learn from the Ranchi cricketer’s vast experience.

“I was sad when he (Dhoni) retired from Tests. I was hoping to play more Test cricket with him so that I could get to learn more about the game. He comes with so much experience, so many pressure games, ups and downs – learning from him would have been great. I am happy it is finally happening. I have the opportunity to spend some more time with him,” said Rahul.

KL Rahul re-invented himself in the recently concluded IPL edition. The stylish right hander tagged as a ‘Test specialist’ played out of his skin and impressed everyone with his aggressive played. The 24 year old, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore, credited skipper Kohli for being an inspirational character.

“My two Test hundreds (against Australia and Sri Lanka) came with Virat. Whenever I have performed, he has been around. He oozes positive energy and inspires people to achieve things which they don’t think they can. His belief drives rest of the team. It is an absolute pleasure batting with Virat. I have been lucky to share the dressing room with him.”

Looking ahead to the Zimbabwe tour, the wicket-keeper batsman asserted, “I am happy to play in all formats, thanks to my performances in the IPL.”

He added, “I am confident and positive in approach going into the series against Zimbabwe. I will like to keep things simple and do things I have been doing so far – strong basics, aggression; that’s how I have played my cricket.”