KL Rahul shares the behind-the-scenes story of his surprise inclusion in the 2023 Asia Cup Super 4 match against Pakistan, where he stepped in for Shreyas Iyer due to a back spasm.
A Surprise Call-Up for Rahul
KL Rahul, India’s star wicketkeeper-batter, revealed that he was not initially supposed to play in the Super 4 clash against Pakistan in the 2023 Asia Cup. Shreyas Iyer was originally scheduled to bat at No. 4, but an unexpected back spasm led to Rahul’s inclusion in the playing XI.
Rahul had endured a challenging period after being sidelined from IPL 2023 due to a tendon tear. However, the year marked a significant comeback for him, as he returned to form in the Asia Cup, playing a crucial role in India’s victory.
Rahul’s Comeback Knock
Rahul made a stunning return with a match-winning knock of 111 off 106 balls, including 12 fours and 2 sixes, against Pakistan in the Super 4s. This century not only marked his comeback but also showcased his resilience and determination. After reaching the milestone off Naseem Shah, Rahul celebrated by turning his back to the dressing room, a gesture that left then-coach Rahul Dravid a bit confused.
The Funny Story Behind the Celebration
In a candid conversation on the 2 Sloggers podcast, Rahul shared the story behind his unique celebration and the reason for turning his back on the dressing room.
“I wasn’t supposed to play this game either. Shreyas Iyer was supposed to play, but he got a back spasm and I ended up playing this game,” Rahul explained.
He further added that during his recovery phase, he motivated himself by dreaming big.
“For those four months, every morning I woke up and said the same thing, ‘I will be the best player in the world,’” Rahul shared.
When Rahul raised his bat in celebration, facing away from the dressing room, coach Rahul Dravid was understandably curious and a little upset.
“Dravid got a little upset. ‘Why did you turn your back on the dressing room?’” Rahul laughed as he recalled the incident.
Rahul explained that it was no disrespect, but rather a personal moment he’d envisioned.
“I had a dream that there was a statue of me celebrating like that,” Rahul said.
Dravid’s Amused Reaction
Dravid couldn’t help but laugh when he heard Rahul’s story about dreaming of a statue in his honor.
“Statue tera? Mera nahi bana, tera statue?” Dravid joked, amused by the thought.
Despite the humorous exchange, Rahul admitted that his knock against Pakistan would always hold a special place in his heart.
“This is why this knock is very special to me,” he said.
A Dominant Partnership with Virat Kohli
Rahul’s memorable knock was complemented by Virat Kohli, who also scored a hundred in the same game. Together, the duo put on a 233-run partnership for the third wicket, guiding India to a resounding 228-run victory over Pakistan.
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