Since taking over as the head coach of the Indian national team a year ago, Gautam Gambhir’s decisions have consistently sparked debates. His tactics, particularly regarding player roles and positions, have often divided opinions. The decision to use Jasprit Bumrah in home Tests or stack the team with all-rounders in white-ball cricket has left many questioning the logic behind these moves. Recently, his handling of KL Rahul’s batting position has become a hot topic of discussion once again.
KL Rahul’s Demotion to No.6 – A Controversial Call
KL Rahul’s batting position has been a matter of intense scrutiny, particularly after the loss to Australia in Perth. In that match, despite the early fall of three wickets, Rahul was sent in to bat at No.6, a position that raised eyebrows. Most experts, including former cricketers, expected Rahul to return to his usual No.5 spot, especially considering the bouncy Australian conditions. However, much to everyone’s surprise, it was Axar Patel who walked out at No.5, and Rahul came in later.
The decision was met with strong criticism from former India captain Kris Srikkanth, who couldn’t fathom why Rahul, who is known for his classy batting, was relegated to a lower position. Srikkanth took to his YouTube channel, describing the move as “absolute rubbish.” He argued that Rahul, who has consistently performed well at No.5, should have been promoted instead of Axar Patel.
Srikkanth’s Strong Criticism of Gambhir’s Tactics
According to Srikkanth, the core issue is not Axar’s performance but the fact that one of India’s most reliable and technically sound players, KL Rahul, is not being given the opportunities he deserves in the top order. Srikkanth stressed that Rahul has a proven track record of success at No.5, having scored multiple centuries in that position. With an impressive average of 56.47 and a strike rate of 96.36, Rahul has consistently demonstrated his ability to anchor innings and provide stability.
“Axar batted well, yes, but that’s not the point,” Srikkanth remarked. “You have one of the world’s best and classiest players in your XI, and you’re saying ‘But Axar played well.’ No, you should not look at it that way.” Srikkanth’s frustration is rooted in the belief that India should prioritize Rahul’s strengths, rather than experimenting with other players in the middle order.
The Stats Don’t Lie: Rahul’s Excellence at No.5
Remarkably, under Gambhir’s leadership, KL Rahul has batted just once at No.5, despite his impressive record at this position. With an average of 56.47 and a strike rate of 96.36, Rahul has proven time and again that he is highly effective in the middle order. However, Gambhir’s reluctance to utilize Rahul in his most successful position raises further questions about his approach to team composition and player roles.
In conclusion, while Gambhir’s unconventional tactics have brought success in some areas, the ongoing debate around Rahul’s batting position shows that not all decisions have been well-received. For the Indian team to continue its success on the international stage, a more balanced and consistent approach to player roles, especially for key players like Rahul, may be the way forward.
