IND vs ENG / Rahul doesn't play for the team? Gavaskar raised questions on Indian batsman

IND vs ENG: Indian cricket team's star batsman KL Rahul is once again in the headlines. He scored just 2 runs in the first ODI against England, after which questions are being raised on his batting. This time former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has also commented strongly on Rahul's batting style.

Gavaskar gave advice to Rahul

During commentary, Sunil Gavaskar said about Rahul's batting that he did not need to be too defensive. Gavaskar said,

"Cricket is a team game. You have to play for the team, not for yourself. Rahul played a half-hearted shot and got out."

This statement of Gavaskar indicates that KL Rahul is more engaged in saving his game than the team needs, which puts pressure on the team. Rahul scored only 2 runs off 9 balls and then got out on the ball of Adil Rashid. Seeing his batting, it seemed that he was waiting for Shubman Gill to complete his century, but neither Rahul could hold on nor Gill could complete his century.

Questions raised on Rahul's place in the playing XI

Questions are also being raised on Rahul's inclusion in the playing XI in the Nagpur ODI. Team India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar had already made it clear that Rishabh Pant is the team's main wicketkeeper-batsman, but captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir decided to play Rahul as a wicketkeeper. Rahul, who came out to bat at number six, could not capitalize on his chance.

However, his poor batting did not have much effect on Team India, as the team defeated England by 4 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Now it remains to be seen whether Rahul is given another chance in the next match or any change is made in the team.

The way forward for Rahul

This series is very important for KL Rahul. He has to improve his form and make useful contributions to the team. Consistent poor performance can not only put his place in danger, but it can also become a matter of concern for the team combination. Now it will be interesting to see whether Rahul will be able to silence the critics with his performance in the next match or will some other player get a chance in his place.