Gautam Gambhir Backs Struggling K.L. Rahul Ahead of Second Test Against New Zealand

India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has thrown his support behind under-pressure opener K.L. Rahul ahead of the second Test against New Zealand, despite growing concerns over the batter’s recent form. 

Rahul, who managed just 0 and 12 in the first Test in Bengaluru, has been facing scrutiny from both fans and cricket experts. However, Gambhir remains confident in Rahul’s abilities, emphasizing that social media criticism holds no weight in team decisions.

“First of all, social media does not matter one bit. You don’t pick players on social media or because of social media, or for that matter even what the experts are saying,” Gambhir said on Wednesday, brushing aside external noise. He stressed that the team’s leadership and management have the final say on selections and strategies.

Despite his struggles in the series opener, Gambhir pointed to Rahul’s performance in the recent series against Bangladesh, where the right-hander scored a determined 68 on a challenging Kanpur wicket. 

“Ultimately, everyone is judged. International cricket is all about being judged… I feel that he is batting really well,” Gambhir said, defending the opener’s technique and mindset.

Rahul’s performance leading up to the New Zealand series has been mixed. In a Duleep Trophy match for India A, his 111-ball 37 came under fire for being overly cautious, failing to capitalize on key moments. However, he redeemed himself with a solid 57 in the second innings during a difficult batting collapse, showing resilience even though India A lost the match to India B.

Since his Test debut in 2014, Rahul has played 53 matches, accumulating 2,981 runs at an average of 33.87. While he has batted in multiple positions, including as an opener, where he scored 2,551 runs at an average of 34.94 with seven centuries, consistency has eluded him. Gambhir, however, is confident that Rahul will bounce back, citing his potential to deliver in crucial moments.

“I am sure he would also be knowing that he wants to score big runs and he has that capability… that’s why he’s been backed by the team management,” Gambhir added, affirming the team’s belief in Rahul’s ability to regain his form.

Rahul’s last notable century came in December 2021 against South Africa in Centurion, where he became the only visiting player to score two centuries at the venue. However, an injury earlier this year kept him out of the home Test series against England, disrupting his momentum.

As India prepares for the second Test, the team management is hopeful that Rahul will find his rhythm and deliver the consistency expected at the international level. With Gambhir’s backing and the pressure mounting, the spotlight will remain firmly on Rahul as he looks to overcome his form slump.