KL Rahul Opens Up on Batting at Number Six, Says the Role Has Sharpened His Game

Over the past few years, Rahul has become a vital cog in India’s middle order. His numbers at No. 5 underline his consistency, having scored 1,365 runs in 32 matches at an impressive average of over 59. However, his average drops to 47.42 when batting at No. 6, a position he has increasingly occupied under the team management led by Gautam Gambhir, often coming in after Washington Sundar.

In the first ODI against New Zealand in Baroda, circumstances forced a reshuffle in India’s batting order. With Sundar sidelined due to injury, Rahul was slotted at No. 6 while Ravindra Jadeja was promoted ahead of him. What initially looked like a setback after Jadeja’s quick dismissal soon turned into an opportunity for Rahul to showcase his finishing skills.

India suffered a brief mini-collapse, but Rahul stitched together a crucial 37-run partnership with Harshit Rana to bring the team back into the contest. Displaying composure under pressure, Rahul sealed the match with two boundaries and a six, underlining his growing reputation as a reliable finisher.

Speaking to the broadcasters after the match, Rahul explained how batting in the middle order forces him to adapt instantly. “When I walk in, the first thing I do is look at the scoreboard and understand what is required over the next few overs,” he said, contrasting it with the luxury of time available to an opener.

“As an opener, you usually get a lot of overs to settle in and plan your innings. I’ve done that for most of my life, so it comes naturally. But batting at five or six is a completely different challenge,” Rahul admitted.

He added that middle-order batting demands immediate impact. “You walk in at a stage where you have to hit boundaries almost from ball one. There’s a lot of pressure, five fielders are already out, and everyone is around you. It’s not like opening, where the field is up and there’s space to work with.”

According to Rahul, this constant pressure has significantly improved his batting awareness. “To be honest, I feel batting at five or six has really enhanced my understanding of my own game. It forces you to think faster and execute better,” he said.

“A Lot More Pressure at Number Six”

Rahul acknowledged that batting at No. 6 carries far greater responsibility, as even a single mistake can swing the match in the opposition’s favor. “There is a lot more pressure at No. 6. One mistake and you could end up on the losing side, and all the blame comes on you,” he explained.

Despite the pressure, Rahul said he finds the role exciting and fulfilling. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities he has received and pride in contributing to the team during high-pressure situations. “Every time I’ve been put under pressure, I’ve somehow found a way to make it work for the team and get US over the line,” he said.

Emphasising his team-first mindset, Rahul reiterated that his primary goal is to remain part of the playing XI. “As I’ve said before, I just want to be in the XI. Put me anywhere. I’m happy to do the job and contribute in any role,” he stated.

India will look to build on their momentum when they take on New Zealand in the second ODI on Wednesday, January 14, with Rahul’s role in the middle order once again expected to be crucial.