I’ve loved the opener’s function: Rahul

Within the final 18 months, Okay.L. Rahul has batted at 4 totally different positions in Checks. Maybe, being an immensely proficient batter in a line-up full of legends and stalwarts has this consequence, for that’s most likely the one solution to shoe-horn you in.

However Rahul is at his greatest as an opener, a place the place eight of his 9 centuries have come, together with the 137 (247b, 18×4) towards England at Headingley on Monday.

“Within the final couple of years, I’ve forgotten what my place is,” Rahul mentioned after the day’s play. “However I’m blissful to be given the duty [of batting at different positions]. It makes the sport thrilling and I can problem myself.

“The final couple of collection, I’ve opened and I’ve loved that. All of my early years I’ve been an opener and I’m blissful to be again.”

Within the 2024-25 Australia tour, the 33-year-old bought 5 first rate begins throughout 10 innings, however couldn’t rating large. The second-innings century in Leeds, after the 42 within the first essay, would have come as a aid.

“I used to be pleased with the best way I used to be batting in Australia however sad that I couldn’t convert. However that’s how the sport goes. I learnt and made certain that after I get a begin, I make it rely.”

Rahul mentioned that he was additionally having fun with the function of being the seniormost batter within the present set-up.

“Even with Virat [Kohli] and Rohit [Sharma], there was a tradition the place everybody helped one another. I’ve been in these conditions myself the place I’ve spoke to Virat forward of collection in England and Australia.

“So the environment within the dressing room is stress-free. And there are conversations like what to anticipate in Leeds, Lord’s… and we attempt to use that info.”

Waiting for Tuesday, Rahul acknowledged that he would have been happier with “40 to 50 runs extra” however expressed hope that 370 runs shall be sufficient.

“There’s undoubtedly a consequence. England have mentioned that overtly. That offers us the chance to take wickets. It’s a difficult pitch. I didn’t really feel set in any respect whereas batting. It has taken a beating and it could break much more”.