In the build up to the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, one of the players around whom a lot of selection talk revolved was KL Rahul. The Karnataka-based batsman, who was one of the revelations of the 2018 IPL, had failed to capitalise the chances on international stage.
IPL 2019 came in as a blessing for the 26-year old, who got selected for his recent antics with the bat in the 15-member Team India squad for the World Cup.
In his eight games for Kings XI Punjab this season, Rahul has scored 335 runs at a strike rate of 130.85 that include one century and three half-centuries.
In a video posted by Kings XI Punjab on Twitter, Rahul expressed his joy to be on the flight to England for the World Cup.
The KXIP wicketkeeper batsman said, “Thank you everybody who sent in their wishes. Obviously its a very proud moment for me, my family and all the loved ones who have dreamt of me representing the country,”
He further added, “Playing the World Cup is obviously a big big step and there will be massive expectations and pressure but as of now I am very happy. It is something I have worked for. From the time I was 11, from the time I first held the bat.”
Rahul made his ODI debut in 2016 against Zimbabwe. In 14 games for India, the 26-year old has scored 343, including one hundred and two fifties.
Over the last one year or so, Rahul had missed out on multiple occasions to make a mark in Indian colours. The cricketer was also surrounded by controversy after his appearance on the talk show, Koffee With Karan.
Prepping up for the play-offs race, Rahul also asked the fans to turn in numbers and support Punjab.
“I can get back to focusing on how i can win games for Punjab now and how I can take the team to the playoffs. So keep the support coming in for Punjab and keep turning in numbers like every other game,” concluded Rahul.
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