29 April,2025 01:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kevin Pietersen and KL Rahul. Pics/AFP
Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen said that he believes KL Rahul deserves a place in India's T20I setup, citing the batter's remarkable improvement in white-ball cricket over the past few years. Pietersen also suggested that Rahul should be India's first-choice wicketkeeper in the shortest format.
"I would bat KL at four for India in T20 cricket," said Pietersen during a post-match press conference following Delhi Capitals' loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, as quoted by the ICC.
Rahul has not featured in a T20I for India since their semi-final exit against England in the 2022 T20 World Cup. However, his consistent IPL performances have reignited discussions about his potential return.
Also Read: Team India-autographed bat, Jaiswal's willow, Pant's helmet for Chappell Foundation auction
In IPL 2024, Rahul amassed 520 runs, finishing as the tournament's seventh-highest run-scorer. In the ongoing IPL 2025 season, he has already scored 364 runs in eight matches, including three half-centuries.
Pietersen emphasised the depth in India's top-order options, including stars like Suryakumar Yadav, but argued that Rahul's adaptability and experience make him ideal for the middle order.
"You guys (India) have plenty of opening batters - Surya bats at the top, among others - but with the way KL Rahul is playing right now, he'd be my first choice to bat at No. 4 and keep wickets for India," the 44-year-old stated.
He also praised Rahul's willingness to evolve as a cricketer.
"It's very, very difficult to adapt. The way he's accepted the need for change and implemented it speaks volumes about the kind of person he is. He's incredibly positive - in his training, mindset, and even how he talks about the game. That's KL Rahul," Pietersen added.
In Delhi Capitals' recent IPL 2025 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rahul scored a steady 41 off 39 balls, including three boundaries. Despite his efforts, DC lost the match by six wickets.
(With ANI inputs)
