Pietersen feels that India has got many opening batsmen options, but in his opinion, KL should also keep the wickets for India in the shortest format of the game. Kevin Pietersen further said that the way KL Rahul has adapted to the change according to the requirements of modern-day cricket is great
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.
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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)
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