KL Rahul Puts India First: Star Batsman Prioritizes England Tests Amidst Paternity

NEW DELHI: While many new fathers would dedicate themselves entirely to the joys of parenthood, KL Rahul made a different choice. He prioritized his commitment to the Indian cricket team above all else.

KL Rahul's unwavering focus is evident as he leaves the field, preparing for the challenges ahead in England.

"Country first, Hemang bhai. I care for this team," were his initial words to Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani upon returning to training for IPL 2025.

His target was clear: the England Test series. With veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired from Tests, Rahul is expected to step up as a senior player, leading the team from the front.

When he arrived for Delhi Capitals practice, he quickly transitioned to batting drills, demonstrating his dedication.

"I really liked the fact that he was someone who said, 'I want to go to England early. I want to play the side game.' Forget about the hundred he got – that came later. The intent – that’s what matters. The intent to be there early, to be prepared, to be with the side," Badani told TimesofIndia.com.

Badani highlighted Rahul's dedication, noting the personal sacrifice involved. "Let’s not forget, he’s a young father, and I don’t think his child is travelling with him initially. So for him to say, 'Country over my child' – that’s a huge call. He could’ve easily said, 'I'm not playing the side game anyway, I’ll just go straight to the Test match.' But he didn’t."

Rahul's actions mirrored his words. He arrived early, participated in the unofficial Test against England Lions, and delivered a compelling performance.

Scores of 116 and 51 in that match sent a strong signal: he was ready.

After experiencing inconsistent opportunities in his Test career, Rahul opened alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. He provided a solid start in the first innings, scoring 42. In the second innings, he capitalized on the opportunity, crafting a determined 137 off 247 balls, guiding India to 364.

This century held special significance for the player. The pride and satisfaction were evident after years of navigating a fluctuating career. It marked his first Test century in 23 Tests, his previous one being in 2023 against South Africa at Centurion.

Having previously toured England for Tests in 2018 and 2021, Rahul's experience is invaluable. This tour holds greater significance as he embraces the role of a senior player, mentor, and influential voice in the dressing room.

He has been seen guiding younger batsmen like Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, and even his childhood friend Karun Nair, who rejoined the Test side after eight years.

"KL made a statement I remember ahead of the Test series: ‘I care for this team, and I want to be here.’ He wanted to go to England. I could see the hunger in his eyes and in his words. In the absence of Rohit and Virat, he becomes the senior-most batter – and he has played that role really well," Badani stated.

"He’s played in England before. And in terms of maturity and technique, you can clearly see he’s more focused now. He knows he has to fill the vacuum left behind. The rest of the squad – apart from Karun – are mostly under 30. So he has to guide players like Sai Sudharsan, Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Nitish Kumar Reddy – all of whom are new to this level," he added.

KL Rahul is bridging the gap between India's accomplished past and its promising future in Test cricket. His presence contributes not only through runs but also through responsibility and setting the standard for a new era. Rahul's choice to prioritize his country over personal comfort highlights his unwavering commitment.