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The Times of India
The Times of India
Sport
Partha Bhaduri | TNN

T20 World Cup India vs Bangladesh: Absolutely no doubt who is going to open, says Rahul Dravid

India coach backs struggling KL Rahul to come good

ADELAIDE: KL Rahul, it seems, is under fire from all quarters except where it matters most, the team management. From 2021 onwards, Rohit Sharma's opening partner has 10 single digit scores, including three ducks. Three of those single-digit scores have come in this T20 World Cup.

Till 2020, Rohit averaged 44.05 from 45 T20Is and got his runs at a strike rate of 144.92. Since 2021, in 24 T20Is, his average has dropped to 28.04 (SR dips to 125.4).

Rahul, though, is still a very important batsman for India, averaging 45. 07 in India wins since his T20I debut.

Asked if it is a problem of technique or mindset which was hampering this proven player and whether his lack of runs was worrying the team management, coach Rahul Dravid said, "No, not at all. He's a fantastic player and he's got a proven track record. He's been batting superbly. This tournament has not been easy for top-order batsmen. I thought Rahul was superb in the practice game against Australia. He's really suited for these kinds of pitches and conditions. Just hoping it all clicks."

Asked what sort of conversations he has had with Rahul, Dravid said, "It's hard to get into exact details of the conversations. In both words and action, he (Rahul) knows over the last year he has our support. That's the great thing about Rohit (Sharma, captain), he's shown them that confidence and belief. We've played the game enough to know that people will go through ups and downs. We also understand the nature of Indian cricket, that once you've gone past Kohli, and Kohli has scored runs, who's the next guy."

So can the team management afford to let Rahul take his own time getting in the groove? Dravid was unequivocal, "In Rohit's mind, and my mind, there's absolutely no doubt who is going to open for us. We have no concerns about him. I know the impact this guy can make. If the conditions dictate that the ball is nipping around a bit, then we can afford our batsmen to maybe be a little more conservative, keep wickets in hand and then target.

"I don't think there is one way to play T20 cricket. It's about being adaptable."

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