Rohit Sharma, India’s Test skipper, backed batter KL Rahul ahead of the two-match series against Bangladesh, starting September 19 in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.Â
Sharma stressed that the team has to bring out the best in him. Despite his inconsistent form and injury issues, Sharma believes Rahul has the quality and talent to succeed in Test cricket.Â
“There are a handful of people in world cricket who had a smooth ride. A handful of cricketers had no issues all their lives; it was all good. Everyone has an up-and-down career. The best thing to do is to understand yourself, understand expectations from yourself and what do you need to bring to table for the team. The kind of quality KL Rahul has, everybody knows about him. The message to him from our side was we want him to play all the game and bring the best out of him. It’s our duty as well to bring the best out of him,” said Rohit in the pre-match press conference.Â
The 37-year-old further spoke about Rahul’s last innings against England at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. “It’s important to give him a clear message that what he expect from you. He has done well since his comeback – he scored a hundred against South Africa. He scored an 80 in the first Test against England in Hyderabad and unfortunately got injured and didn’t play afterwards,” the Men in Blue skipper added.Â
Rohit also mentioned KL Rahul’s phenomenal performance in Hyderabad and hopes he continues where he left off.Â
“It’s important that we give him a clear message every time we get an opportunity to speak to him. That’s what we’ve done. I hope he continues from where he left in Hyderabad. He’s got the game to play spin, seamers so I don’t see any reason why he can’t flourish in Test cricket. Opportunities are there. It is important for him to understand how he wants to take his career forward,” the opener concluded.Â