India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised KL Rahul's versatility, composure, and adaptability across various batting positions, calling the wicketkeeper-batter a vital asset for the national team ahead of the third ODI against New Zealand in Hamilton.

Rahul played an essential unbeaten knock of 26 off 38 deliveries, featuring two boundaries and two sixes, in the second ODI at Wellington. Amid falling wickets on a demanding pitch, KL Rahul anchored one end to steer India to 113/7 in 26 overs before rain halted play, with India eventually securing a four-run victory via the DLS method.