KL Rahul is a link between retired seniors and youngsters in the team, says Irfan Pathan

IANS June 23, 2025 301 views

Former cricketer Irfan Pathan commends KL Rahul for his pivotal role in the Indian Test team. With the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Rahul emerges as a crucial link to guide younger players. His recent performance in Headingley, scoring his 18th Test fifty, showcases his form and leadership. Pathan believes Rahul's experience will be instrumental in India's success, especially during this transitional phase.

"KL Rahul is the link between seniors who have retired and youngsters who are in the team." - Irfan Pathan
KL Rahul is a link between retired seniors and youngsters in the team, says Irfan Pathan
New Delhi, June 23: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan heaped high praise on opener KL Rahul and said he is the link between recently-retired players and the youngsters in the team. Pathan's remarks came shortly after the right-handed batter completed his half-century during India's second innings on Monday.

Key Points

1

KL Rahul praised as vital link by Irfan Pathan

2

Rahul shines with 18th Test fifty at Headingley

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Retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli mark transition

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Rahul's experience crucial for India's Test success

Rahul missed the opportunity to hit the half-century in the first essay and departed for 42. However, the opener looked in great touch and rhythm in the second innings and went on to hit his 18th Test fifty off 87 balls on Day Four at Headingley. With the retirements of senior duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Rahul is one of the most senior batters in the current Indian touring party with over 50 Test caps to his name.

Highlighting Rahul's experience and maturity, Pathan feels that the 33-year-old is a key member of the Indian Test team and will excel in his new role.

"K.L. Rahul is the link between seniors who have retired and youngsters who are in the team. He is the main man now in Test cricket who will excel in this responsibility. Brilliant batting so far. Need to make it big," Pathan wrote on X.

Coming to the match, captain Shubman Gill struck a career-best score of 147 while Yashasvi Jaiswal (101) and Rishabh Pant (134) also struck centuries to take India's first-innings total to 471.

In reply, Jasprit Bumrah bagged a five-wicket haul to reduce England to 465 in their first innings.

On Day 4, India lost Gill (8) early in the first session as Brydon Carse delivered the first breakthrough of the day for England. The Indian captain just added two runs to his overnight score. Currently, Rahul and Rishabh Pant have the task of taking India's lead further to pose a threat to the hosts.

Rahul has helped India to a good position with 153/3, with Rahul batting on 72.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
KL Rahul has really matured as a batsman! His technique overseas has improved tremendously. Remember how he struggled in England before? Now he's our most reliable opener across formats. Well said by Irfan Pathan - he's the perfect bridge between generations 👏
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Priya M.
While I agree with Pathan's assessment, I sometimes feel Rahul throws away good starts. Today was different though - showed great patience. Hope he converts this into a big hundred! Our middle order needs this stability after Kohli-Rohit era.
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Arjun S.
What a turnaround for KL! From being dropped to becoming the senior statesman. His keeping skills add so much value too. Team India is lucky to have such a versatile player who can adapt to any situation. #Respect
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Sanjana T.
Honestly, I was skeptical about Rahul in Tests last year. But he's proved me wrong! His footwork against spin has improved, and he's leaving the ball so well overseas. That's the sign of a thinking batsman. More power to him! 🇮🇳
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Vikram J.
The real test will be how he handles captaincy pressure when it comes. With Rohit-Virat gone, leadership duties might fall on him. Hope BCCI grooms him properly for that role. Talent is there, just needs consistency now!
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Neha P.
Watching Rahul bat today was pure class! His cover drives were textbook perfect 😍 But let's not forget Pant's explosive century - what a comeback story! Our batting future looks bright with these guys leading the charge.

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KL Rahul Irfan Pathan Indian Cricket Team Test Cricket Rohit Sharma Virat Kohli Cricket News