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India has cruised through the group stage of the 2022 Asia Cup after winning all their games against Pakistan and Hong Kong. The Indian team looked formidable with a majority of players putting on an incredible shift. But the Men in Blue still need to solve the KL Rahul puzzle as he is still miles away from his former self.
The Karanataka-based cricketer was dismissed for a golden duck against Pakistan and then played a struggling knock of 36 runs off 39 balls against Hong Kong. Addressing this lack of form, Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle believes that if KL Rahul doesn’t improve his form his position on the side will be in question.
“It was okay today as he was playing against Hong Kong. But even then I think taking 39 balls is way too much. Hong Kong you knew you would win it, but unlike Virat who looked more and more fluent as the innings went along, I don’t think KL Rahul looked more fluent on his 38th ball than he was earlier. So, I hope he gets as much time in the nets,” Harsha said while discussing the Hong Kong match on a Cricbuzz show.
Harsha then talked about how Rahul is a generational talent but still needs to get over his fear. He stated: "Because every time I see KL Rahul who is a once-in-a-generation player who is getting stuck somewhere. I wonder whether he needs to shed some fear. Look I don’t know I haven’t played at that level. I haven’t been in those situations before. I just wonder if he needs to shed those fears and say doesn’t matter if I get out. And I hope next year, he is not worried about the Orange Cap."
Bhogle further addressed that KL Rahul’s place in the team could be in jeopardy if he fails to perform in India’s remaining matches in the ongoing Asia Cup. He felt the selectors may consider dropping him from the T20 World Cup in October.
“I honestly believe even after this Asia Cup, KL Rahul is still playing like this then we have a question for the selectors. If after these four games (Asia Cup 2022), if KL Rahul hasn’t got his rhythm back then there is a question. I would be very sad if that happens.” he said.