Wasim Jaffer compares KL Rahul to Virat Kohli, highlights mindset difference

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli (Pic: AFP)

Former India opening batter Wasim Jaffer lauded KL Rahul's natural talent and technical foundation, saying that the wicketkeeper-batter stands alongside iconic cricketer Virat Kohli in terms of ability. However, Jaffer noted that Kohli's fierce mindset and consistency remain the main factor separating the two.

Appearing on The Great Indian Cricket Show on Doordarshan, Jaffer also offered behind-the-scenes perspectives from his tenure with the Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Punjab Kings.

During his time working as a coach alongside stars such as Chris Gayle and Rahul, Jaffer shared his experience of managing high-profile players.

Describing KL Rahul as a technically refined and calm performer across all three formats, Jaffer suggested the batter has the potential to score far more runs for both country and franchise.

"KL is a top-class player who plays all three formats remarkably well. Technically sound, composed, and level-headed. Even though he is still actively playing, I believe he has somewhat underachieved given his skill set. He can get so many more runs for both India and his franchise. In terms of pure talent and quality, I genuinely believe he is at par with Virat Kohli, but it is Virat's elite mentality that creates that ultimate separation between KL and Virat." Jaffer said.

Wasim Jaffer opens up about his experience of working with Chris Gayle

Jaffer also talked about Chris Gayle's commitment during his stint with Punjab Kings, explaining that the Jamaican star took immense pride in his output on the field.

He pointed out that Gayle went unsold in the early stages of the auction before Punjab eventually signed him in the final round. Despite his famously laid-back style, Jaffer shared that Gayle remained intensely focused and delivered a prolific campaign of 500 to 600 runs for the team.

"When we worked with Chris Gayle, we could see how much pride he took in his game. Before Punjab picked him up, he had played for RCB for a long time, and then at the auction no one picked him initially until Punjab stepped in during the final round. For a player of his stature, I feel his ego was slightly hurt being taken in the last round."

(With inputs from ANI)