'He knows exactly what he needs to do, he's smart enough' - KL Rahul on Hardik Pandya's New Zealand series snub

India is staged to play a three-match T20I series against New Zealand starting from November 17. A few key names missed out from the T20I setup whereas a few of them were rested. One notable name that did not make the cut is that of Hardik Pandya. However, India’s keeper-batter KL Rahul has now opened on the all-rounder’s exclusion from the side.

Pandya has experienced a lean patch with the willow lately. He looked out of form in the IPL and couldn’t quite change his fortunes in the T20 World Cup 2021 as well. He couldn’t reap any greater rewards with the ball as well. KL Rahul however feels that Pandya is a smart cricketer and knows exactly what he needs to do.

“Quite honestly, I mean I do not know if that has happened. He knows exactly what he needs to do and what is expected out of him. He is smart enough to understand that,” KL Rahul said in a virtual press conference.

We have a great opportunity to learn from Rahul Dravid: KL Rahul

India’s former cricketer Rahul Dravid is all set to start his tenure as Team India’s head coach. He has had a successful coaching stint at the NCA and has played a vital role in guiding the Under-19 players to success. KL Rahul thus asserted that having Dravid on the side will be an opportunity for the team to better themselves.

“Look, I have been fortunate to know him for a very long time. As a youngster, I did try to pick his brain. He was very helpful to all of us back home in Karnataka. He has helped boys across the country, having him here with us as a part of that setup will give us an opportunity to learn,” Rahul said in a press conference.

“We all know how big a name Rahul Dravid is, we have a great opportunity to learn from him and get better as cricketers. When it comes to coaching, I have played a couple of games with India A setup, he is somebody who has a great understanding of the game and creates an atmosphere where everybody is comfortable. He has always been a team man,” KL Rahul added.