Each time KL Rahul gets ready in his stance to face a delivery, he makes it a point to take a couple of glances at the good length area. It...
Each time KL Rahul gets ready in his stance to face a delivery, he makes it a point to take a couple of glances at the good length area. It’s a ritual most batters follow to help their eyes and brain memorise that all-important patch on the pitch. Oftentimes, though, players do this simply out of habit. When they’re out of form, you can tell they aren’t really focusing on that spot.
However, Rahul’s innings at Trent Bridge on Friday was proof that he was completely dialled in. He kept his head down, made that good length area the centre of his attention, and delivered a masterclass on how to bat in seamer-friendly conditions.
It, perhaps, wouldn’t be unfair to say that of all the jobs that visiting players are required to do in England, opening the batting is the toughest. The conditions are invariably conducive for swing bowling, the pitches have good bounce and carry, and the new red ball tends to do something no matter its seam position. As a batter in England, you’re never really settled. And if you’re tasked with facing the new ball, the challenge is that much more difficult.
That is why Rahul’s knock was worth its weight in gold for India....
