KL Rahul finally returns to form, making a case for forthcoming World Cup

Indian opener KL Rahul is finally among the runs scoring back to back half-centuries to make his case forward for the forthcoming World Cup. Rahul is currently captaining the India A side for the Test series against England Lions. Battling his poor form, Rahul finally stamped his authority scoring 81 runs off 166 deliveries on Wednesday to give his team a perfect start.

He squared off the unofficial Test series on a sensational note with 89 runs off 192 deliveries in the first Test against the Lions. However, the game ended in a draw. Rahul followed up his 89-run knock with another 81 in the second Test to continue his good run and reaffirm his credentials for a spot in the World Cup squad with just a handful of ODIs left before the much-anticipated event.

In his 81-run knock on Wednesday, Rahul struck eleven boundaries and posted a 178-run stand combining with his partner Abhimanyu Easwaran (117). The duo got India A off to a solid start. Priyank Panchal (50) slammed a half-century and added 74 runs for the second wicket with Easwaran. India A posted 282 runs for the loss of three wickets at the end of day’s play.

Good news ahead for Rahul?

With Rahul Dravid supervising things in the India A circuit, KL Rahul’s return to form is another great example of what Dravid brings to the table.

Meanwhile, there were some reports suggesting KL Rahul may get a final opportunity against Australia to see if he can be India’s reserve opener in the most prestigious event of the year. The final team selection is scheduled to take place in Mumbai on Friday (15th February) and this remains to be seen if his candidature is actually put forward.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief selector MSK Prasad suggested that he was disappointed seeing KL Rahul’s drop in form, but believes that he is still in the scheme of things for the 50-overs tournament.

It will be interesting to see if his recent form helps him with a place in India side ahead of Ajinkya Rahane, who is also in the list for selection. Rahane is currently captaining Rest of India side in the Irani Cup and could contribute just 13 runs with the bat in first innings.

With less than 48 hours for the selection to happen, the duo will try to put their best foot forward on any and every opportunity that knocks their door.

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