Champions Trophy Final: 'KL Rahul at No. 6 great for Team India'

NEW DELHI: India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has hailed KL Rahul's adaptability, stating that his seamless transition to the No. 6 role has strengthened the team's batting depth.

While Rahul had previously flourished at No. 5, he has willingly embraced the shift down the order since the ODI series against Sri Lanka last year.

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Rahul showcased his growing comfort in the Champions Trophy semifinal against Australia, playing a crucial unbeaten 42. Alongside Hardik Pandya, he added 34 quick runs to shut the door on Australia.

Kotak praised Rahul's willingness to play any role the team requires. "He is someone who can open, go at 4 or 5, and is now doing what No. 6 demands. He adapts well and is very happy in the role he is performing," he said.




The coach emphasised how having a solid batter at No. 6 benefits the team. "When he starts performing at that number, it obviously helps him too because he is adjusting to different situations. So, that is great for the team as well," Kotak explained. "But whatever I have spoken to him, he is happy to do whatever the team requires, and he has been doing that."

Kotak also stressed that the Indian team is handling the pressure of the final well, thanks to the influence of senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja.

"The seniors, young players... they all talk. That is something very priceless," he said. "They have 15-20 years of experience. They talk to the players who have been playing for two or three years. Some things you learn with experience, but listening to guys who have that experience and their 20 years of learning — that creates a great environment."

With Rahul excelling in his new role and experienced players keeping the dressing room calm, Team India looks well-prepared for the Champions Trophy final.