KL Rahul is all set to lead a star-studded Indian team for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa as the squad was announced on Sunday (Nov 23). While big names like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli kept their place, it was the returns of Rishabh Pant and Ruturaj Gaikwad that made the headlines. The squad also saw the return of Ravindra Jadeja, who was dropped during the Australia series last month.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 NEWS 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>&#39;s squad for <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> ODI series against South Africa announced. More details ▶️<a href="https://t.co/0ETGclxAdL">https://t.co/0ETGclxAdL</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/3cXnesNiQ5">pic.twitter.com/3cXnesNiQ5</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1992561040559894534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Rahul to lead India</h2>In the announcement made on Sunday, Rahul was officially announced as the captain who has taken charge of the side on 12 occasions in the past in the ODI format. He will also keep wickets while the squad will feature the likes of Dhruv Jurel and Pant. Rahul’s role as captain comes after skipper Shubman Gill was dropped due to a neck spasm, while Shreyas Iyer is suffering from a rib injury sustained during the Australia series.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;On the other hand, three key returns also made headlines for the Men in Blue as Gaikwad, Jadeja and Pant returned. Pant missed the ODI series against Australia due to injury, while Gaikwad was out of favour for a long time, but will now look for a return to the Playing XI.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Jadeja came as a surprise pick, having been dropped from the Australia series and was deemed surplus to requirements. The squad won’t feature Jasprit Bumrah as his playing time is managed for the crucial series and the upcoming T20 World Cup in India.The ODI series will start on Sunday (Nov 30) as India host South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi.&nbsp;India’s ODI squad: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (C) (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Dhruv Jurel.&nbsp;

While big names like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli kept their place, it was the returns of Rishabh Pant and Ruturaj Gaikwad that made the headlines. The squad also saw the return of Ravindra Jadeja, who was dropped during the Australia series last month.

KL Rahul is all set to lead a star-studded Indian team for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa as the squad was announced on Sunday (Nov 23). While big names like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli kept their place, it was the returns of Rishabh Pant and Ruturaj Gaikwad that made the headlines. The squad also saw the return of Ravindra Jadeja, who was dropped during the Australia series last month.

While big names like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli kept their place, it was the returns of Rishabh Pant and Ruturaj Gaikwad that made the headlines. The squad also saw the return of Ravindra Jadeja, who was dropped during the Australia series last month.

IND vs SA: KL Rahul to lead India in ODI series in Shubman Gill's absence; Pant, Gaikwad return

India batter KL Rahul, in an recent interview, revealed that IPL captains face a lot of questions from the owners which is something he found very hard. Notably, Rahul was the captain of IPL side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL and was seen having an animated discussion with owner Sanjiv Goenka on the boundary after a loss in 2024 season. The video of the moment went viral on the social media with fans calling out LSG owner's body language and behaviour towards Rahul.<h2>Rahul shares hardships as IPL captain</h2>"What I found hard as a captain in the IPL was the number of meetings and reviews required, and having to explain decisions at the ownership level. I realised that by the end of the IPL, I was more mentally and physically drained than after playing 10 months of international cricket," Rahul said during a chat for Humans of Bombay.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-women-skipper-sultana-unnecessarily-drags-harmanpreet-to-defend-allegations-of-beating-up-juniors-1763440366415">Bangladesh skipper Sultana drags Harman in defence of allegations against her</a>He also said shared that some "questions we never get asked throughout the year because the coaches know what's going on. You're only answerable to coaches and selectors, who have all played cricket and understand the game.""No matter what you do, no matter how many boxes you tick, nothing in sport guarantees victory. That's hard to explain to people from a non-sporting background," he added.<h2>Rahul chooses not to lead Delhi</h2>After IPL 2024, Rahul asked to be released by the franchise and was bought by Delhi Capitals. The Indian batter reportedly chose not to lead the side and the responsibility was subsequently was given to Axar Patel for IPL 2025.As for LSG, they bought Rishabh Pant from Delhi Capitals in the mega-auction ahead of IPL 2025 for a huge price of INR 27 crore (approx $3 million) and was named the captain of the side.

After IPL 2024, Rahul asked to be released by LSG and was bought by Delhi Capitals. The Indian batter reportedly chose not to lead the side and the responsibility was subsequently was given to Axar Patel for IPL 2025.

India batter KL Rahul, in an recent interview, revealed that IPL captains face a lot of questions from the owners which is something he found very hard. Notably, Rahul was the captain of IPL side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL and was seen having an animated discussion with owner Sanjiv Goenka on the boundary after a loss in 2024 season. The video of the moment went viral on the social media with fans calling out LSG owner's body language and behaviour towards Rahul. Rahul shares hardships as IPL captain "What I found hard as a captain in the IPL was the number of meetings and reviews required, and having to explain decisions at the ownership level. I realised that by the end of the IPL, I was more mentally and physically drained than after playing 10 months of international cricket," Rahul said during a chat for Humans of Bombay. Also Read - Bangladesh skipper Sultana drags Harman in defence of allegations against her He also said shared that some "questions we never get asked throughout the year because the coaches know what's going on. You're only answerable to coaches and selectors, who have all played cricket and understand the game." "No matter what you do, no matter how many boxes you tick, nothing in sport guarantees victory. That's hard to explain to people from a non-sporting background," he added. Rahul chooses not to lead Delhi After IPL 2024, Rahul asked to be released by the franchise and was bought by Delhi Capitals. The Indian batter reportedly chose not to lead the side and the responsibility was subsequently was given to Axar Patel for IPL 2025. As for LSG, they bought Rishabh Pant from Delhi Capitals in the mega-auction ahead of IPL 2025 for a huge price of INR 27 crore (approx $3 million) and was named the captain of the side.

After IPL 2024, Rahul asked to be released by LSG and was bought by Delhi Capitals. The Indian batter reportedly chose not to lead the side and the responsibility was subsequently was given to Axar Patel for IPL 2025.

KL Rahul says explaining 'decisions at the ownership level' hardest as captain in IPL

From KL Rahul to AB de Villiers here is a look at five players with most runs without winning an IPL title. The list of players also consists of Chris Gayle, Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant as teams prepare for the latest round of retentions. 

From KL Rahul to AB de Villiers here is a look at five players with most runs without winning an IPL title. The list of players also consists of Chris Gayle, Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant as teams prepare for the latest round of retentions.&nbsp;

From KL Rahul to AB de Villiers, 5 players with most runs without winning an IPL title

From Steve Smith to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five active batters with most runs in India vs Australia ODIs. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Glenn Maxwell

From Steve Smith to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five active batters with most runs in India vs Australia ODIs. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Glenn Maxwell

From Steve Smith to Virat Kohli, 5 active batters with most runs in India vs Australia ODIs

Shubman Gill wins his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflict a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win in Delhi on Tuesday (Oct 14). A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase early within the first session. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan and Gill, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 helped the Indian Team walk away with an easy win and claim their first series win this ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.&nbsp;“It's a big honour (to lead India). It's a really big honour, I'm kind of getting used to it. Managing all the players, leading this team is a great honour. It's about taking the right options in the given situation.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I try to make the most probable decision in the given situation that we are in that game. And sometimes you have to take a bold decision, depending on which player can get you certain runs or can get you those wickets,” captain Gill said after the game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2025-australia-adam-zampa-josh-inglis-odi-opener-perth-tie-1760418173884">IND vs AUS 2025: Australia make last-minute changes ahead of India ODI opener as 2 key players out of Perth tie</a> &nbsp;Beginning day five with nine wickets and 58 runs remaining for the win, Rahul and Sudharsan took the attack to the opposition, hitting bad balls for fours and defending the good ones. Although they succeeded in doing so for the longest time possible, West Indies captain Roston Chase broke the stand by removing Sai, caught in the first slip. His counterpart Gill, who smoked a six and a four in his brief stay, also got out to Chase as he miscued one straight to the mid-wicket area. &nbsp;This win, however, also marks birthday boy Gautam Gambhir’s first Test series victory as a head coach this season, and first since beating Bangladesh at home last season. &nbsp;“It feels really great to be honest. After a good series where we gave them a fight (in England), coming back to India and winning the series is special. I've learned a lot in these five games and I'm looking forward to improving on that, and obviously giving a bit more for the team,” said Sudharsan, who scored 87 and 39 in two innings against West Indies in the Delhi Test. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kuldeep Yadav were India’s best players in this match. While Jaiswal completed his sixth Test hundred, hitting a brilliant 175 in the first innings, Kuldeep won the Player of the Year award for his eight wickets, including a five-for in the first.&nbsp; &nbsp;“This was a totally different wicket. Bowling a lot of overs was the challenge here; I enjoyed bowling here. There wasn't any drift here. The wicket was too dry. Bowling a lot of overs and getting the breakthrough is something I enjoy a lot,” Kuldeep said of his performance.

Despite losing two wickets early on day five, Team India walked away with an easy win in the second Test in Delhi.

Shubman Gill wins his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflict a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win in Delhi on Tuesday (Oct 14). A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase early within the first session. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan and Gill, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 helped the Indian Team walk away with an easy win and claim their first series win this ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. “It's a big honour (to lead India). It's a really big honour, I'm kind of getting used to it. Managing all the players, leading this team is a great honour. It's about taking the right options in the given situation. “I try to make the most probable decision in the given situation that we are in that game. And sometimes you have to take a bold decision, depending on which player can get you certain runs or can get you those wickets,” captain Gill said after the game. Also read | IND vs AUS 2025: Australia make last-minute changes ahead of India ODI opener as 2 key players out of Perth tie Beginning day five with nine wickets and 58 runs remaining for the win, Rahul and Sudharsan took the attack to the opposition, hitting bad balls for fours and defending the good ones. Although they succeeded in doing so for the longest time possible, West Indies captain Roston Chase broke the stand by removing Sai, caught in the first slip. His counterpart Gill, who smoked a six and a four in his brief stay, also got out to Chase as he miscued one straight to the mid-wicket area. This win, however, also marks birthday boy Gautam Gambhir’s first Test series victory as a head coach this season, and first since beating Bangladesh at home last season. “It feels really great to be honest. After a good series where we gave them a fight (in England), coming back to India and winning the series is special. I've learned a lot in these five games and I'm looking forward to improving on that, and obviously giving a bit more for the team,” said Sudharsan, who scored 87 and 39 in two innings against West Indies in the Delhi Test. Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kuldeep Yadav were India’s best players in this match. While Jaiswal completed his sixth Test hundred, hitting a brilliant 175 in the first innings, Kuldeep won the Player of the Year award for his eight wickets, including a five-for in the first. “This was a totally different wicket. Bowling a lot of overs was the challenge here; I enjoyed bowling here. There wasn't any drift here. The wicket was too dry. Bowling a lot of overs and getting the breakthrough is something I enjoy a lot,” Kuldeep said of his performance.

Despite losing two wickets early on day five, Team India walked away with an easy win in the second Test in Delhi.

IND vs WI 2nd Test: KL Rahul's fifty guides India home in Delhi as hosts complete series win

From KL Rahul to Rishabh Pant here is a list of five Indian batters with most Test runs in 2025. The list also features the likes of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant. 

From KL Rahul to Rishabh Pant here is a list of five Indian batters with most Test runs in 2025. The list also features the likes of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

From KL Rahul to Rishabh Pant, 5 Indian batters with most Test runs in 2025

From Shubman Gill to Abhishek Sharma here is a list of five Indian batters with most runs in 2025. The list also features the likes of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant. 

From Shubman Gill to Abhishek Sharma here is a list of five Indian batters with most runs in 2025. The list also features the likes of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

From Shubman Gill to Abhishek Sharma, 5 Indian batters with most runs in 2025

From Virat Kohli to Ravindra Jadeja here is a list of five active Indian batters with most ODI runs on Australian soil. The list features the likes of Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul ahead of the upcoming series Down Under. 

From Virat Kohli to Ravindra Jadeja here is a list of five active Indian batters with most ODI runs on Australian soil. The list features the likes of Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul ahead of the upcoming series Down Under.&nbsp;

From Virat Kohli to Ravindra Jadeja, 5 active Indian batters with most ODI runs on Australian soil

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma here is a list of five active Indian batters with most ODI runs on home soil. The honourable list also features the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul. 

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma here is a list of five active Indian batters with most ODI runs on home soil. The honourable list also features the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul.&nbsp;

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, 5 active Indian batters with most ODI runs on home soil

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five active Indian batters with most runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five active Indian batters with most runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, 5 active Indian batters with most runs in ODIs

From Joe Root to KL Rahul, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in ICC World Test Championship (2025-27). This list also includes Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Harry Brook

From Joe Root to KL Rahul, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in ICC World Test Championship (2025-27). This list also includes Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Harry Brook

From Joe Root to KL Rahul, 5 batters with most runs in ICC World Test Championship (2025-27)

From Shubman Gill to KL Rahul, here's a look at the top five active Indian batters with most runs in Test cricket. This list also includes Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant

From Shubman Gill to KL Rahul, here's a look at the top five active Indian batters with most runs in Test cricket. This list also includes Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant

From Shubman Gill to KL Rahul, 5 active Indian batters with most Test runs

KL Rahul, on day 2 (Oct 3) of the ongoing first Test against West Indies, became only the fourth Indian opening batter to score 10 or more Test centuries at the top. Here's list of Indian opening batters with most Test centuries along with KL Rahul.

KL Rahul, on day 2 (Oct 3) of the ongoing first Test against West Indies, became only the fourth Indian opening batter to score 10 or more Test centuries at the top. Here's list of Indian opening batters with most Test centuries along with KL Rahul.

From Rahul to Murali Vijay: Indian openers with most Test hundreds

From KL Rahul to Ravindra Jadeja, here's a look at the top five active Indian batters with most centuries in Test cricket. This list also includes Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal

From KL Rahul to Ravindra Jadeja, here's a look at the top five active Indian batters with most centuries in Test cricket. This list also includes Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal

From KL Rahul to Ravindra Jadeja, 5 active Indian batters with most centuries in Test cricket

KL Rahul has found his form and that too in some style. He was given the slot of opening for four of five Tests in Australia during Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 before being made a permanent opener on the England tour after Rohit's retirement. He did well in England, scoring 532 runs in 10 innings and hitting two tons as well as two fifties. He was India's second best batter behind skipper Shubman Gill (754 runs). The batter now has scored a ton in first Test against West Indies in Ahmedabad, making him only the fourth Indian opener to score 10 or more Test hundreds.<h2>Rahul joins Gavaskar, Sehwag and Vijay in elite club</h2>Over the years, many batters have opened the batting for India in Test but none have been as effective as Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag or Murali Vijay if the numbers are to be looked at. Now, Rahul is reaching at the same level after a long span of stop-and-go career.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-1st-test-captain-gill-joins-legendary-gavaskar-in-exceptional-list-with-50-in-ahmedabad-1759480493968">IND vs WI, 1st Test: Gill joins Gavaskar in ELUSIVE list with 50 in Ahmedabad</a>Gavaskar scored 33 Test tons as opening batter for India in 203 innings, Sehwag managed 22 in 168 innings, Vijay hit 12 in 100 innings and now Rahul has reached the double-figure mark as well. The ton in Ahmedabad Test against West Indies was Rahul's 10th as opener in Tests for India in just 94 innings.<h2>India wrest control of Ahmedabad Test</h2>India were in full control on day 2 (Oct 3) of the Ahmedabad Test, thanks to Rahul, Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja. After Rahul fell on team score of 218, Jurel and Jadeja joined the forces and added 206 runs for the fifth wicket. In the process, Jurel scored his maiden Test ton. Jurel was dismissed for 125 in dying moments of the day. Soon after, Jadeja scored his sixth Test hundred as well as India's lead swelled near to 300.

Over the years, many batters have opened the batting for India in Test but none have been as effective as Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag or Murali Vijay if the numbers are to be looked at. Now, Rahul is reaching at the same level after a long span of stop-and-go career.

KL Rahul has found his form and that too in some style. He was given the slot of opening for four of five Tests in Australia during Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 before being made a permanent opener on the England tour after Rohit's retirement. He did well in England, scoring 532 runs in 10 innings and hitting two tons as well as two fifties. He was India's second best batter behind skipper Shubman Gill (754 runs). The batter now has scored a ton in first Test against West Indies in Ahmedabad, making him only the fourth Indian opener to score 10 or more Test hundreds. Rahul joins Gavaskar, Sehwag and Vijay in elite club Over the years, many batters have opened the batting for India in Test but none have been as effective as Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag or Murali Vijay if the numbers are to be looked at. Now, Rahul is reaching at the same level after a long span of stop-and-go career. Also Read - IND vs WI, 1st Test: Gill joins Gavaskar in ELUSIVE list with 50 in Ahmedabad Gavaskar scored 33 Test tons as opening batter for India in 203 innings, Sehwag managed 22 in 168 innings, Vijay hit 12 in 100 innings and now Rahul has reached the double-figure mark as well. The ton in Ahmedabad Test against West Indies was Rahul's 10th as opener in Tests for India in just 94 innings. India wrest control of Ahmedabad Test India were in full control on day 2 (Oct 3) of the Ahmedabad Test, thanks to Rahul, Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja. After Rahul fell on team score of 218, Jurel and Jadeja joined the forces and added 206 runs for the fifth wicket. In the process, Jurel scored his maiden Test ton. Jurel was dismissed for 125 in dying moments of the day. Soon after, Jadeja scored his sixth Test hundred as well as India's lead swelled near to 300.

Over the years, many batters have opened the batting for India in Test but none have been as effective as Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag or Murali Vijay if the numbers are to be looked at. Now, Rahul is reaching at the same level after a long span of stop-and-go career.

IND vs WI, 1st Test: Ton up Rahul joins Gavaskar and Sehwag in SPECIAL opening batters list

India have begun their home Test season under Shubman Gill’s leadership on a strong note. At stumps on day 1 (Oct 2) of first Test against West Indies, the visitors were bundled out for 162 in their first innings. It was a day dominated by Indian pacers, with Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah sharing seven wickets between them. In response, India took control, reaching 121/2 with KL Rahul and Gill both unbeaten. It was also a special day for Bumrah as he became the fastest Indian pacer to take 50 wickets at home, achieving the feat in just 24 innings. He equalled the record previously set by former pacer Javagal Srinath.&nbsp;While these milestones made headlines, KL Rahul’s brilliant unbeaten half-century went unnoticed. Rahul scored 53 runs off 114 balls, displaying complete control at the crease. But this wasn’t just any half-century; it was the first unbeaten fifty scored in the second innings of a Test match in Ahmedabad after 38 years.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-1st-test-day-1-scorecard-bowlers-strangle-visitors-before-rahuls-unbeaten-fifty-puts-india-in-charge-on-day-1-1759406905704">IND vs WI, 1st Test: Bowlers strangle visitors before Rahul's unbeaten fifty puts India in charge on day 1</a><h2>KL Rahul joins Kapil Dev in this rare feat</h2>The last time an unbeaten half-century was scored in the second innings of a Test match at Ahmedabad was on Mar 4, 1987. Kapil Dev walked out with India at 246/6, chasing Pakistan’s 395 in first innings. Kapil scored an unbeaten 50 to help India reach 323, and the match ended in a draw.&nbsp;Coming back to the India vs West Indies Test, KL Rahul has been rock solid at the top, demonstrating both patience and technical skill. His unbeaten 53 reflects his calmness under pressure. Rahul’s batting has helped India stay in control, and he will look to erase the deficit and build a good, strong lead for the hosts.&nbsp;As India gears up for day 2 against the West Indies, all attention will be on Rahul and his role in anchoring the innings.

While these milestones made headlines, KL Rahul’s brilliant unbeaten half-century went unnoticed. Rahul scored 53 runs off 114 balls, displaying complete control at the crease.

India have begun their home Test season under Shubman Gill’s leadership on a strong note. At stumps on day 1 (Oct 2) of first Test against West Indies, the visitors were bundled out for 162 in their first innings. It was a day dominated by Indian pacers, with Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah sharing seven wickets between them. In response, India took control, reaching 121/2 with KL Rahul and Gill both unbeaten. It was also a special day for Bumrah as he became the fastest Indian pacer to take 50 wickets at home, achieving the feat in just 24 innings. He equalled the record previously set by former pacer Javagal Srinath. While these milestones made headlines, KL Rahul’s brilliant unbeaten half-century went unnoticed. Rahul scored 53 runs off 114 balls, displaying complete control at the crease. But this wasn’t just any half-century; it was the first unbeaten fifty scored in the second innings of a Test match in Ahmedabad after 38 years. Also read | IND vs WI, 1st Test: Bowlers strangle visitors before Rahul's unbeaten fifty puts India in charge on day 1 KL Rahul joins Kapil Dev in this rare feat The last time an unbeaten half-century was scored in the second innings of a Test match at Ahmedabad was on Mar 4, 1987. Kapil Dev walked out with India at 246/6, chasing Pakistan’s 395 in first innings. Kapil scored an unbeaten 50 to help India reach 323, and the match ended in a draw. Coming back to the India vs West Indies Test, KL Rahul has been rock solid at the top, demonstrating both patience and technical skill. His unbeaten 53 reflects his calmness under pressure. Rahul’s batting has helped India stay in control, and he will look to erase the deficit and build a good, strong lead for the hosts. As India gears up for day 2 against the West Indies, all attention will be on Rahul and his role in anchoring the innings.

Rahul scored 53 runs off 114 balls, displaying complete control at the crease. But this wasn’t just any half-century; it was the first unbeaten fifty scored in the second innings of a Test match in Ahmedabad after 38 years.

IND vs WI, 1st Test: KL Rahul equals Kapil Dev’s rare half-century record in Ahmedabad Test

KL Rahul marked his return to long-form cricket with an outstanding knock of 176*, guiding India A to a five-wicket win over Australia A in the second unofficial Test being played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Friday (September 26). His 210-ball innings, which included 16 boundaries and four sixes, led the team to successfully chase down 412—setting a new record for the highest successful chase by an 'A' team.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-super-four-who-will-win-between-india-vs-sri-lanka-match-prediction-and-five-key-players-to-watch-out-for-1758875954761">Asia Cup 2025, Super Four - Who will win between India vs Sri Lanka: Match prediction and five key players to watch out for</a>&nbsp;On Day 4, with India A needing 243 more runs for the win, Australia A struck early by dismissing nightwatchman Manav Suthar. Rahul, who had retired hurt the day before, resumed his innings with Sai Sudharsan, who soon reached his half-century. Rahul brought up his own century after lunch, continuing his dominance as Australia’s bowlers failed to make an impact. Sudharsan reached his own hundred but fell shortly after.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dhruv Jurel, with a quick-fire 56, supported Rahul in a 115-run stand that propelled India A closer to the win. Despite Jurel’s departure, Rahul remained steady at the crease, and along with Nitish Kumar Reddy’s quick boundaries, India A completed the chase with eight balls remaining, sealing a 1-0 series win. The first match ended in a draw. For Australia, Todd Murphy was the pick of the bowler as he picked 3/114, while Corey Rocchiccioli picked up two wickets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-super-four-india-vs-sri-lanka-match-today-head-to-head-ground-stats-pitch-conditions-and-more-1758874165423">Asia Cup 2025 Super Four, India vs Sri Lanka match today: Head-to-head, ground stats, pitch conditions and more</a>&nbsp;Brief scores:Australia A: 420 &amp; 185 (Nathan McSweeny 85, Josh Philippe 50; Gurnoor Brar 3/42, Manav Suthar 3/50) lost to India A 194 &amp; 413/5 (Sai Sudharsan 100, KL Rahul 176; Todd Murphy 3/114, Corey Rocchiccioli 2/84) by five wickets.

KL Rahul's masterclass leads India A to historic chase win over Australia A; seal series

KL Rahul marked his return to long-form cricket with an outstanding knock of 176*, guiding India A to a five-wicket win over Australia A in the second unofficial Test being played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Friday (September 26). His 210-ball innings, which included 16 boundaries and four sixes, led the team to successfully chase down 412—setting a new record for the highest successful chase by an 'A' team. Also Read: Asia Cup 2025, Super Four - Who will win between India vs Sri Lanka: Match prediction and five key players to watch out for On Day 4, with India A needing 243 more runs for the win, Australia A struck early by dismissing nightwatchman Manav Suthar. Rahul, who had retired hurt the day before, resumed his innings with Sai Sudharsan, who soon reached his half-century. Rahul brought up his own century after lunch, continuing his dominance as Australia’s bowlers failed to make an impact. Sudharsan reached his own hundred but fell shortly after. Dhruv Jurel, with a quick-fire 56, supported Rahul in a 115-run stand that propelled India A closer to the win. Despite Jurel’s departure, Rahul remained steady at the crease, and along with Nitish Kumar Reddy’s quick boundaries, India A completed the chase with eight balls remaining, sealing a 1-0 series win. The first match ended in a draw. For Australia, Todd Murphy was the pick of the bowler as he picked 3/114, while Corey Rocchiccioli picked up two wickets. Also Read: Asia Cup 2025 Super Four, India vs Sri Lanka match today: Head-to-head, ground stats, pitch conditions and more Brief scores: Australia A: 420 & 185 (Nathan McSweeny 85, Josh Philippe 50; Gurnoor Brar 3/42, Manav Suthar 3/50) lost to India A 194 & 413/5 (Sai Sudharsan 100, KL Rahul 176; Todd Murphy 3/114, Corey Rocchiccioli 2/84) by five wickets.

KL Rahul's unbeaten 176 guides India A to a historic chase, securing a five-wicket win over Australia A in the second unofficial Test played at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top four Indian batters fastest to 5000 runs in T20s.This list also includes KL Rahul and Suresh Raina.

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top four Indian batters fastest to 5000 runs in T20s.This list also includes KL Rahul and Suresh Raina as they completed 5000 runs in record time.

Indian batters fastest to 5000 runs in T20s, Kohli is third, check who tops the list

The BCCI men’s selection committee is due to meet in Mumbai early next week to pick the squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format. With the UAE hosting this eight-team tournament (September 9-28), the selectors and Suryakumar Yadav, the T20I captain, who will also be present during the meeting, will finalise those excelling in the shortest format. While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad.&nbsp;However, former cricketer-turned-broadcaster Aakash Chopra has his reservations around Rahul’s selection, saying that although his IPL numbers are brilliant, it’s his mindset and inconsistent approach which is holding him back from going all out for a place in the T20I side.&nbsp; &nbsp;“He is a good player. If you see his IPL numbers, they are outstanding. In the recent past, no player has been a 600-run bank like him. However, a reputation has developed that he plays very slow at times. If something is stopping him, it’s his own mindset. Sometimes his legs are shackled, and when the mindset is right, he flies with wings,” Chopra said of Rahul’s weaknesses in the shortest format.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-selector-aaqib-javed-warns-india-ahead-of-asia-cup-tie-says-this-team-has-ability-to-beat-1755433936874">Pakistan selector warns India ahead of Asia Cup tie, says ‘This team has ability to beat…’</a> &nbsp;While he praised Rahul for some of his extraordinary strokeplay against the best of bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah (in the IPL before), Chopra also pointed out that Rahul faces a stiff test for an opener’s slot in the Asia Cup squad, with several regular starters already ahead of him in the pecking order. &nbsp;“I remember a shot when he hit Bumrah for a six over cover, and I was like, wow. However, then you also get knocks when you feel he should hit, but he thinks differently,” Chopra said while lauding Rahul.&nbsp; &nbsp;“He cannot play as an opener because the opening story has ended for now. Sanju Samson is there with Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal is behind them, and Shubman Gill is also in line; four people are standing,” the former Indian batter opined on Rahul’s chances of breaking into the top order in the Asia Cup squad. &nbsp;However, in another scenario, Rahul could play as a spare keeper-batter; with Jitesh Sharma, Dhruv Jurel, and Ishan Kishan ahead of him, it makes it challenging for the selectors to fit him in the T20I squad for the 2025 Asia Cup.

While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad.

The BCCI men’s selection committee is due to meet in Mumbai early next week to pick the squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format. With the UAE hosting this eight-team tournament (September 9-28), the selectors and Suryakumar Yadav, the T20I captain, who will also be present during the meeting, will finalise those excelling in the shortest format. While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad. However, former cricketer-turned-broadcaster Aakash Chopra has his reservations around Rahul’s selection, saying that although his IPL numbers are brilliant, it’s his mindset and inconsistent approach which is holding him back from going all out for a place in the T20I side. “He is a good player. If you see his IPL numbers, they are outstanding. In the recent past, no player has been a 600-run bank like him. However, a reputation has developed that he plays very slow at times. If something is stopping him, it’s his own mindset. Sometimes his legs are shackled, and when the mindset is right, he flies with wings,” Chopra said of Rahul’s weaknesses in the shortest format. Also read | Pakistan selector warns India ahead of Asia Cup tie, says ‘This team has ability to beat…’ While he praised Rahul for some of his extraordinary strokeplay against the best of bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah (in the IPL before), Chopra also pointed out that Rahul faces a stiff test for an opener’s slot in the Asia Cup squad, with several regular starters already ahead of him in the pecking order. “I remember a shot when he hit Bumrah for a six over cover, and I was like, wow. However, then you also get knocks when you feel he should hit, but he thinks differently,” Chopra said while lauding Rahul. “He cannot play as an opener because the opening story has ended for now. Sanju Samson is there with Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal is behind them, and Shubman Gill is also in line; four people are standing,” the former Indian batter opined on Rahul’s chances of breaking into the top order in the Asia Cup squad. However, in another scenario, Rahul could play as a spare keeper-batter; with Jitesh Sharma, Dhruv Jurel, and Ishan Kishan ahead of him, it makes it challenging for the selectors to fit him in the T20I squad for the 2025 Asia Cup.

While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad.

KL Rahul, not Gill, leads race for spot in Asia Cup squad but broadcaster Aakash Chopra feels…

The BCCI will shortly announce the 2025 Asia Cup squad. With plenty of options to choose from for each spot, they will take their time to pick the best one, which also includes some surprise names. Here’s a look at those six names, which could be surprise picks for the continental tournament.

The BCCI will shortly announce the 2025 Asia Cup squad. With plenty of options to choose from for each spot, they will take their time to pick the best one, which also includes some surprise names. Here’s a look at those six names, which could be surprise picks for the continental tournament.

Here are 6 surprise picks in India’s 2025 Asia Cup squad

From Virat Kohli to SuryaKumar Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian batters fastest to 1000 runs in T20 Internationals. The list also contains players like KL Rahul, Suresh Raina and former captain Rohit Sharma.

From Virat Kohli to SuryaKumar Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian batters fastest to 1000 runs in T20 Internationals. The list also contains players like KL Rahul, Suresh Raina and former captain Rohit Sharma.

From Virat Kohli to SuryaKumar Yadav, 5 Indian batters fastest to 1000 runs in T20Is, two active players on list

From Shubman Gill to Ruturaj Gaikwad, here's a look at the top five Indian batters fastest to 3000 runs in T20s.

From Shubman Gill to Ruturaj Gaikwad, here's a look at the top five Indian batters fastest to 3000 runs in T20s.

From Shubman Gill to Ruturaj Gaikwad, 5 Indian batters fastest to 3000 runs in T20s

From Virat Kohli to KL Rahul, here is a list of five Indian batters to score fastest ODI hundreds. The list also contains legendary names like Virender Sehwag and Mohammad Azharuddin. 

From Virat Kohli to KL Rahul, here is a list of five Indian batters to score fastest ODI hundreds. The list also contains legendary names like Virender Sehwag and Mohammad Azharuddin.&nbsp;

From Virat Kohli to KL Rahul, 5 Indian batters to score fastest ODI hundreds

Every victorious team in sport or cricket, for that matter, will always have that one individual who seldom gets a mention or gets an equal amount of limelight just because their contribution gets overshadowed by their peers’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Years after their swansong performance, that individual or player would make it into the folklore as unsung heroes with pundits, experts and fans alike debating how that player hung-in there by biding his time, grinding his way out of the muddle to make life slightly easier for his contemporaries who go on to achieve glory and bring laurels to themselves and the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whilst much has been written and said about Yashasvi Jaiswal’s swashbuckling centuries and Rishabh Pant’s courage and fortitude at Old Trafford and Shubman Gill cementing his legacy at the fancied number four position, KL Rahul’s performance has gone under the radar in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Averaging over 53 with a strike rate of just under 50, Rahul amassed 532 runs with two tons and two half-centuries, making him the third-highest run-scorer after Gill and Joe Root. The right-handed batter has been the linchpin of the Indian batting, especially in the third Test at Lord’s when India lost Rishabh Pant following a run out by England captain Ben Stokes. Rahul ensured that his hundred took India to safer shores by clearing the deficit and also gave the bowlers something to defend.&nbsp;&nbsp;With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli bidding adieu to Test Cricket, Rahul has seamlessly transitioned himself as the senior statesman who can chew up all the pressure and navigate the team out of any impasse.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, will this defiant performance reap him a place in the Indian T20I squad for the Asia Cup that is set to begin in September?&nbsp; Reports have emerged that Gill and Jaiswal might make a return to the Asia Cup squad. The report also states Pant may not be available for the Asia Cup owing to his toe fracture. So the question arises as to who will be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper?&nbsp;The last time KL Rahul played a T20I was way back in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final in Australia, where India lost to England by 10 wickets. If Rahul is still in contention, then he would most probably play at No.4 or 5 at the very best. The wicketkeeper-batter has also been one of the top ten highest run scorers in IPL 2025, where he scored a plethora of runs at no.4. The right-handed batter finished with an average of just about 54 and a strike rate of 149.72.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;Furthermore, the Asia Cup is taking place in the UAE, a place that is not alien to Rahul. Earlier this year, Rahul scored an important 42 against Australia in the semi-final of the 2025 Champions Trophy that ensured India a berth in the final. His string of 30s and 40s during that tournament helped the Men in Blue get over the finish line more than once.&nbsp;The 33-year-old batter also has a keen eye for taking DRS calls when he dons the wicket-keeping gloves, much better than Pant and some of his younger peers.&nbsp;&nbsp;But Rahul might be overlooked as selectors would look to bolster India’s batting and may not give too much impetus to this one aspect alone. This means that Jitesh Sharma, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan might be in the thick of things as selectors look for specialists in the shortest format.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Whilst much has been written and said about Yashasvi Jaiswal’s centuries and Rishabh Pant’s performance at Old Trafford and Shubman Gill cementing his legacy at number four position, KL Rahul’s performance has gone under the radar in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. 

Every victorious team in sport or cricket, for that matter, will always have that one individual who seldom gets a mention or gets an equal amount of limelight just because their contribution gets overshadowed by their peers’. Years after their swansong performance, that individual or player would make it into the folklore as unsung heroes with pundits, experts and fans alike debating how that player hung-in there by biding his time, grinding his way out of the muddle to make life slightly easier for his contemporaries who go on to achieve glory and bring laurels to themselves and the team. Whilst much has been written and said about Yashasvi Jaiswal’s swashbuckling centuries and Rishabh Pant’s courage and fortitude at Old Trafford and Shubman Gill cementing his legacy at the fancied number four position, KL Rahul’s performance has gone under the radar in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Averaging over 53 with a strike rate of just under 50, Rahul amassed 532 runs with two tons and two half-centuries, making him the third-highest run-scorer after Gill and Joe Root. The right-handed batter has been the linchpin of the Indian batting, especially in the third Test at Lord’s when India lost Rishabh Pant following a run out by England captain Ben Stokes. Rahul ensured that his hundred took India to safer shores by clearing the deficit and also gave the bowlers something to defend. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli bidding adieu to Test Cricket, Rahul has seamlessly transitioned himself as the senior statesman who can chew up all the pressure and navigate the team out of any impasse. However, will this defiant performance reap him a place in the Indian T20I squad for the Asia Cup that is set to begin in September? Reports have emerged that Gill and Jaiswal might make a return to the Asia Cup squad. The report also states Pant may not be available for the Asia Cup owing to his toe fracture. So the question arises as to who will be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper? The last time KL Rahul played a T20I was way back in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final in Australia, where India lost to England by 10 wickets. If Rahul is still in contention, then he would most probably play at No.4 or 5 at the very best. The wicketkeeper-batter has also been one of the top ten highest run scorers in IPL 2025, where he scored a plethora of runs at no.4. The right-handed batter finished with an average of just about 54 and a strike rate of 149.72. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Furthermore, the Asia Cup is taking place in the UAE, a place that is not alien to Rahul. Earlier this year, Rahul scored an important 42 against Australia in the semi-final of the 2025 Champions Trophy that ensured India a berth in the final. His string of 30s and 40s during that tournament helped the Men in Blue get over the finish line more than once. The 33-year-old batter also has a keen eye for taking DRS calls when he dons the wicket-keeping gloves, much better than Pant and some of his younger peers. But Rahul might be overlooked as selectors would look to bolster India’s batting and may not give too much impetus to this one aspect alone. This means that Jitesh Sharma, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan might be in the thick of things as selectors look for specialists in the shortest format. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Whilst much has been written and said about Yashasvi Jaiswal’s centuries and Rishabh Pant’s performance at Old Trafford and Shubman Gill cementing his legacy at number four position, KL Rahul’s performance has gone under the radar in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.&nbsp;

Will KL Rahul’s resilience reward him a place in the Indian squad for Asia Cup 2025?

KL Rahul, the Delhi Capitals (DC) superstar, could be on his way to joining the three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the next season. In a startling development surrounding the IPL 2026 trade window, Rahul, who joined DC from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) last year for a whopping $1.6m (INR 14 crore), could be seen wearing KKR’s jersey in the 19th edition. After LSG roped him in the IPL 2022 mega auction, making him the captain for the next three years, they released him ahead of the last mega auction, with Delhi acquiring his services. Despite Rahul leading the run-scoring chart for Delhi the past season (539 runs in 13 innings), he could decide on his future sooner.&nbsp;Rahul's move to Delhi almost did wonders, serving multiple purposes. Perhaps upset over the infamous public meltdown from his former franchise team owner (Sanjiv Goenka) following losing an away clash against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, Rahul was anyway seeking another home in the cash-rich league, which, with the DC transfer, happened. On the other hand, what worked for Delhi was that they had an Indian player as captain, a luxury for any franchise, making this a dream come true for all parties involved.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-ravi-ashwin-warns-india-of-england-exceptional-talent-jacob-bethell-ahead-of-oval-test-1753943856833">Ravi Ashwin warns India of England’s ‘exceptional talent’ ahead of Oval Test, says ‘cricketing world will get to see…’</a> &nbsp;KKR, elsewhere, struggled massively after letting go of their title-winning captain Shreyas Iyer, just one season after their IPL 2024 triumph, later appointing Ajinkya Rahane as his replacement for the next season. Unsure of their potential captaincy options, KKR chose Rahane, whom they bought in the second round late on day two of the mega auction for INR 1.5 crore. This move, however, turned disastrous for the franchise, as Rahane failed to help them reach the playoffs, let alone help them defend their IPL title.&nbsp; &nbsp;The three-time winners stood eighth on the points table, with just five wins from 14 contested matches. &nbsp;Although rumours of KKR letting go of Rahane ahead of the next season made headlines shortly after their IPL 2025 campaign came to an end, reports of them wanting to have KL Rahul on board have begun doing the rounds. Should this deal materialise during the trade window, KKR will have a marquee Indian player as a captain and wicketkeeper, serving several purposes.&nbsp; &nbsp;Since KKR have two keepers, both internationals (Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz), appointing an experienced Indian gloveman would do wonders. KL, however, didn’t keep wickets for Delhi this season but is used to such duties.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, a Times of India (TOI) report suggests that KKR is working on a trade deal to sign Rahul ahead of the next season, luring him into making the franchise captain.&nbsp;

After LSG roped KL Rahul in the IPL 2022 mega auction, making him the captain for the next three years, they released him ahead of the last mega auction, with Delhi acquiring his services.

KL Rahul, the Delhi Capitals (DC) superstar, could be on his way to joining the three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the next season. In a startling development surrounding the IPL 2026 trade window, Rahul, who joined DC from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) last year for a whopping $1.6m (INR 14 crore), could be seen wearing KKR’s jersey in the 19th edition. After LSG roped him in the IPL 2022 mega auction, making him the captain for the next three years, they released him ahead of the last mega auction, with Delhi acquiring his services. Despite Rahul leading the run-scoring chart for Delhi the past season (539 runs in 13 innings), he could decide on his future sooner. Rahul's move to Delhi almost did wonders, serving multiple purposes. Perhaps upset over the infamous public meltdown from his former franchise team owner (Sanjiv Goenka) following losing an away clash against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, Rahul was anyway seeking another home in the cash-rich league, which, with the DC transfer, happened. On the other hand, what worked for Delhi was that they had an Indian player as captain, a luxury for any franchise, making this a dream come true for all parties involved. Also read | Ravi Ashwin warns India of England’s ‘exceptional talent’ ahead of Oval Test, says ‘cricketing world will get to see…’ KKR, elsewhere, struggled massively after letting go of their title-winning captain Shreyas Iyer, just one season after their IPL 2024 triumph, later appointing Ajinkya Rahane as his replacement for the next season. Unsure of their potential captaincy options, KKR chose Rahane, whom they bought in the second round late on day two of the mega auction for INR 1.5 crore. This move, however, turned disastrous for the franchise, as Rahane failed to help them reach the playoffs, let alone help them defend their IPL title. The three-time winners stood eighth on the points table, with just five wins from 14 contested matches. Although rumours of KKR letting go of Rahane ahead of the next season made headlines shortly after their IPL 2025 campaign came to an end, reports of them wanting to have KL Rahul on board have begun doing the rounds. Should this deal materialise during the trade window, KKR will have a marquee Indian player as a captain and wicketkeeper, serving several purposes. Since KKR have two keepers, both internationals (Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz), appointing an experienced Indian gloveman would do wonders. KL, however, didn’t keep wickets for Delhi this season but is used to such duties. Meanwhile, a Times of India (TOI) report suggests that KKR is working on a trade deal to sign Rahul ahead of the next season, luring him into making the franchise captain.

After LSG roped KL Rahul in the IPL 2022 mega auction, making him the captain for the next three years, they released him ahead of the last mega auction, with Delhi acquiring his services.

KL Rahul to KKR ahead of IPL 2026 could be a possibility - Report

When England took a lead of 311 runs in the first innings over India in Manchester, the chances of draw seemed bleak if not non existent. India losing two wickets in the first of their second innings made 'the non-existent' look brighter under gloomy skies at Old Trafford, but what transpired after that was history. India batted 142 overs more after the first one and secured the draw. After losing the first two wickets for no runs, India only lost two more wickets till the game ended. The innings saw three hundreds, one ninety and two 100+ partnerships - one stood out.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bumrah-to-play-in-final-test-vs-england-coach-gambhir-shares-update-after-india-draw-manchester-test-1753693140684">Bumrah to play in final Test vs England? Coach Gambhir shares update</a>With India at 0/2, Test skipper Shubman Gill joined KL Rahul at the crease and the duo added 188 runs for the third wicket. It is the highest partnership, not only for India but ever, from two down for naught. The previous record was also with India when Mohinder Amarnath and Gundappa Viswanath had added 105 runs from 0/2 against Australia in Melbourne back in 1977. The third partnership on the list goes to Stanley Jackson and Archie MacLaren of England - they had added unbeaten 102 runs against Australia back in 1902 at Lord's.The partnership was broken when Rahul was dismissed for a 90 - in the process he took his runs tally past 500 (511) in the series which is the most for him in a series ever. The 90 was also Rahul's fourth 50+ score of the series to go with two hundreds. As for Gill, the skipper went on to score 103 - his fourth ton of the series. Gill is already past 700 runs in the series - 722 to be exact.The partnership not only laid a platform for the batters to come but instilled the belief in the relatively inexperienced side that India can manage to achieve the task which looked monumental after the first over and two down for zero.

The partnership not only laid a platform for the batters to come but instilled the belief in the relatively inexperienced side that India can manage to achieve the task which looked monumental after the first over and two down for zero.

When England took a lead of 311 runs in the first innings over India in Manchester, the chances of draw seemed bleak if not non existent. India losing two wickets in the first of their second innings made 'the non-existent' look brighter under gloomy skies at Old Trafford, but what transpired after that was history. India batted 142 overs more after the first one and secured the draw. After losing the first two wickets for no runs, India only lost two more wickets till the game ended. The innings saw three hundreds, one ninety and two 100+ partnerships - one stood out. Also Read - Bumrah to play in final Test vs England? Coach Gambhir shares update With India at 0/2, Test skipper Shubman Gill joined KL Rahul at the crease and the duo added 188 runs for the third wicket. It is the highest partnership, not only for India but ever, from two down for naught. The previous record was also with India when Mohinder Amarnath and Gundappa Viswanath had added 105 runs from 0/2 against Australia in Melbourne back in 1977. The third partnership on the list goes to Stanley Jackson and Archie MacLaren of England - they had added unbeaten 102 runs against Australia back in 1902 at Lord's. The partnership was broken when Rahul was dismissed for a 90 - in the process he took his runs tally past 500 (511) in the series which is the most for him in a series ever. The 90 was also Rahul's fourth 50+ score of the series to go with two hundreds. As for Gill, the skipper went on to score 103 - his fourth ton of the series. Gill is already past 700 runs in the series - 722 to be exact. The partnership not only laid a platform for the batters to come but instilled the belief in the relatively inexperienced side that India can manage to achieve the task which looked monumental after the first over and two down for zero.

The partnership not only laid a platform for the batters to come but instilled the belief in the relatively inexperienced side that India can manage to achieve the task which looked monumental after the first over and two down for zero.

Rahul-Gill partnership laid foundation of Manchester draw for India and created history

Openers in Test cricket have a crucial role; they are responsible for facing the new ball, leaving deliveries outside the off-stump, scoring vital runs at the start, and minimising the impact of the new ball. In SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia), openers face an added challenge, as the new ball tends to swing significantly in the first hour. Throughout cricket history, many notable openers have made their mark, and India has produced some exceptional ones as well. Now, let’s take a look at the five best openers in the history of Indian Test cricket.&nbsp;<h2>1. Sunil Gavaskar – 9607 Runs</h2>Sunil Gavaskar leads the tally of most runs by an Indian opener in Test cricket. Gavaskar scored 9,607 runs as an opener, facing the world’s toughest bowlers without a helmet.<h2>2. Virender Sehwag – 8207 Runs</h2>Former India opener Virendra Sehwag smashed 8,207 runs as an opener with an astonishing strike rate of 82. Sehwag is the only player to score two triple centuries in Test cricket.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-will-dhruv-jurel-bat-instead-of-rishabh-pant-here-is-what-icc-rule-says-manchester-test-1753350770840">IND vs ENG: Will Dhruv Jurel bat instead of Rishabh Pant? Here's what ICC rule says</a><h2>3. Gautam Gambhir – 4119 Runs</h2>Gambhir was India’s rock at the top order during his peak. He scored 4,119 runs opening with the bat for India. Notably, Gambhir smashed five consecutive centuries in 2009 against Bangladesh, New Zealand and Sri Lanka.<h2>4. Murali Vijay – 3880 Runs</h2>&nbsp;Murali Vijay scored 3,880 runs, with 12 hundreds and 15 half-centuries. However, on eight occasions he went back to the dressing room without troubling the scores.<h2>5. KL Rahul – 3224 Runs</h2>&nbsp;KL Rahul is the most versatile players in the current Indian squad. He can keep the wickets, open the batting, bat in the middle and even act as a finisher. Playing as an opener, Rahul is currently on 3224 runs and counting. He is the only active player on the list.

India has produced some phenomenal openers in Test cricket. Only 12 players have crossed the 2,000 mark and five players reached the 3000 run milestone. 

Openers in Test cricket have a crucial role; they are responsible for facing the new ball, leaving deliveries outside the off-stump, scoring vital runs at the start, and minimising the impact of the new ball. In SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia), openers face an added challenge, as the new ball tends to swing significantly in the first hour. Throughout cricket history, many notable openers have made their mark, and India has produced some exceptional ones as well. Now, let’s take a look at the five best openers in the history of Indian Test cricket. 1. Sunil Gavaskar – 9607 Runs Sunil Gavaskar leads the tally of most runs by an Indian opener in Test cricket. Gavaskar scored 9,607 runs as an opener, facing the world’s toughest bowlers without a helmet. 2. Virender Sehwag – 8207 Runs Former India opener Virendra Sehwag smashed 8,207 runs as an opener with an astonishing strike rate of 82. Sehwag is the only player to score two triple centuries in Test cricket. Also read | IND vs ENG: Will Dhruv Jurel bat instead of Rishabh Pant? Here's what ICC rule says 3. Gautam Gambhir – 4119 Runs Gambhir was India’s rock at the top order during his peak. He scored 4,119 runs opening with the bat for India. Notably, Gambhir smashed five consecutive centuries in 2009 against Bangladesh, New Zealand and Sri Lanka. 4. Murali Vijay – 3880 Runs Murali Vijay scored 3,880 runs, with 12 hundreds and 15 half-centuries. However, on eight occasions he went back to the dressing room without troubling the scores. 5. KL Rahul – 3224 Runs KL Rahul is the most versatile players in the current Indian squad. He can keep the wickets, open the batting, bat in the middle and even act as a finisher. Playing as an opener, Rahul is currently on 3224 runs and counting. He is the only active player on the list.

India has produced some phenomenal openers in Test cricket. Only 12 players have crossed the 2,000 mark and five players reached the 3000 run milestone.&nbsp;

Meet five Indian openers with most runs in Test cricket. Only one active player in the list

Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul have offered India a solid opening pair for the ongoing Test series in England. The duo has added 285 runs in seven innings batted together and went past fifty three times so far. The pair added 94 runs on day 1 (Jul 23) of the fourth Test in Manchester - the highest for them in the series and the highest opening partnership at the venue since India got independence in 1947 from Britishers. There are only two partnerships better than Rahul-Jaiswal's 94 for the first wicket at Old Trafford - 203 and 124 - both by Vijay Merchant &amp; Syed Mushtaq Ali in 1936 and 1946, respectively.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-ben-stokes-wins-toss-and-elects-to-bowl-in-old-trafford-manchester-will-england-lose-test-history-suggests-1753265642397">Stokes wins toss, elects to bowl in Manchester - Will ENG lose? History says...</a><h2>Jaiswal becomes first opener to score fifty at Old Trafford since 1974</h2>India opener Jaiswal (58) is also the first opening batter to score 50 or more in a Test at Old Trafford in Manchester since legendary Sunil Gavaskar did so in 1974 when he scored 101 in the second innings of the Test. This is the third fifty-plus score by Jaiswal in seven innings of the series including a hundred as well. The Southpaw, however, is the first Indian opener to score a fifty of more in a Test at Old Trafford in the first innings of the match. Jaiswal reached his fifty shortly after lunch on day 1 of the Test.<h2>Rahul becomes fifth India batter to score 1000-plus Test runs in England</h2>KL Rahul scored 46 runs before being dismissed on day 1 of the Old Trafford Test shortly after lunch. His innings took his tally of Test runs in England to 1,035 and he is now only the fifth Indian batter to score 1000-run mark in England in Tests. Before Rahul, Sachin Tendulkar (1,575), Rahul Dravid (1,376), Sunil Gavaskar (1,152), and Virat Kohli (1,096) had crossed the same milestone.

There are only two partnerships better than Rahul-Jaiswal's 94 for the first wicket at Old Trafford - 203 and 124 - both by Vijay Merchant & Syed Mushtaq Ali in 1936 and 1946, respectively.

Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul have offered India a solid opening pair for the ongoing Test series in England. The duo has added 285 runs in seven innings batted together and went past fifty three times so far. The pair added 94 runs on day 1 (Jul 23) of the fourth Test in Manchester - the highest for them in the series and the highest opening partnership at the venue since India got independence in 1947 from Britishers. There are only two partnerships better than Rahul-Jaiswal's 94 for the first wicket at Old Trafford - 203 and 124 - both by Vijay Merchant & Syed Mushtaq Ali in 1936 and 1946, respectively. Also Read - Stokes wins toss, elects to bowl in Manchester - Will ENG lose? History says... Jaiswal becomes first opener to score fifty at Old Trafford since 1974 India opener Jaiswal (58) is also the first opening batter to score 50 or more in a Test at Old Trafford in Manchester since legendary Sunil Gavaskar did so in 1974 when he scored 101 in the second innings of the Test. This is the third fifty-plus score by Jaiswal in seven innings of the series including a hundred as well. The Southpaw, however, is the first Indian opener to score a fifty of more in a Test at Old Trafford in the first innings of the match. Jaiswal reached his fifty shortly after lunch on day 1 of the Test. Rahul becomes fifth India batter to score 1000-plus Test runs in England KL Rahul scored 46 runs before being dismissed on day 1 of the Old Trafford Test shortly after lunch. His innings took his tally of Test runs in England to 1,035 and he is now only the fifth Indian batter to score 1000-run mark in England in Tests. Before Rahul, Sachin Tendulkar (1,575), Rahul Dravid (1,376), Sunil Gavaskar (1,152), and Virat Kohli (1,096) had crossed the same milestone.

There are only two partnerships better than Rahul-Jaiswal's 94 for the first wicket at Old Trafford - 203 and 124 - both by Vijay Merchant &amp; Syed Mushtaq Ali in 1936 and 1946, respectively.

ENG vs IND at Old Trafford: Rahul-Jaiswal register highest opening partnership since independence

From Chris Gayle to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to score 5000 runs in T20 cricket. Surprisingly, only one Indian is on the list.

From Chris Gayle to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to score 5000 runs in T20 cricket. Surprisingly, only one Indian is on the list.

From Chris Gayle to Babar Azam: 5 batters fastest to 5000 T20 runs, only one Indian on list

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020). This list also includes Rishabh Pant,  KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara.

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020). This list also includes Rishabh Pant, &nbsp;KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara.

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill: 5 Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020)

KL Rahul slammed his second hundred at the Mecca of Cricket (Lord’s), hitting 100 against England on day three of the third Test. His masterful inning won a million hearts, as alongside Rishabh Pant, he helped India stay alive in the match. He looked composed during his time in the middle, making English bowlers put in extra yards early in the first session. Soon after completing his hundred, his second of the tour, Rahul got out exactly on 100 off Shoaib Bashir (caught in the slip), but created a little history with that.&nbsp;KL Rahul had his name on the Lord’s honours board for the second time in his career, also becoming the second Indian player after ace quick Jasprit Bumrah to achieve it thus far in the ongoing Test against England. However, there is something more to Rahul’s 100 at Lord’s this time.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At Lords, <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> delivered yet again, his 2nd century on this historic ground, becoming only the 2nd Indian to do so. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> 👉 3rd TEST, DAY 3 | LIVE NOW on JioHotstar 👉 <a href="https://t.co/YhqadvE3Be">https://t.co/YhqadvE3Be</a> <a href="https://t.co/IvPIBFIBKY">pic.twitter.com/IvPIBFIBKY</a>&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1944019411385376989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-joins-virat-kohli-in-bashing-bcci-family-restriction-rule-gautam-gambhir-1752327851177">‘When chips are down, you need…,’ Raina joins Kohli in bashing BCCI’s family restriction rule</a> &nbsp;The record books say that KL Rahul getting out on a hundred at Lord’s makes it the 100th instance in men’s Test cricket when a batter got out on exactly 100, a unique record. Although that does no good to his Test numbers, it makes it memorable for the statisticians and the readers worldwide.<h3>Pant, Rahul among runs at Lord’s &nbsp;</h3>After dismissing England on 387 in the first innings, with Bumrah picking his 13th away five-for in Tests – a Test record for Asian quicks, the Indian batters made merry on this even-steven Lord’s pitch.&nbsp; &nbsp;After the visitors lost Yashasvi Jaiswal early inside the second over, caught in the second slip off returning Jofra Archer, Rahul and Karun Nair stitched a 61-run stand in challenging conditions to lift Team India. A brilliant one-handed catch in the first slip (by Joe Root) accounted for Nair on 40, before Chris Woakes removed Indian captain and batter in-form Shubman Gill, caught behind on 16 late on day two.&nbsp; &nbsp;Come day three, Rahul and Rishabh Pant made merry of the playing conditions. Although Ben Stokes deployed a negative approach midway through the first session, targeting Pant’s injured finger by asking him to play pull shots, both batters held their ground, but not for long.&nbsp; &nbsp;Just at the stroke of lunch, a direct throw from Stokes sent Pant packing on 74, breaking Team India’s momentum.&nbsp; &nbsp;After the second session resumed, Bashir got Rahul’s number on 100.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy, have since held India’s innings, helping them cut the deficit under 75.

KL Rahul had his name on the Lord’s honours board for the second time in his career, also becoming the second Indian player after ace quick Jasprit Bumrah to achieve it thus far in the ongoing Test against England. However, there is something more to Rahul’s 100 at Lord’s this time.

KL Rahul slammed his second hundred at the Mecca of Cricket (Lord’s), hitting 100 against England on day three of the third Test. His masterful inning won a million hearts, as alongside Rishabh Pant, he helped India stay alive in the match. He looked composed during his time in the middle, making English bowlers put in extra yards early in the first session. Soon after completing his hundred, his second of the tour, Rahul got out exactly on 100 off Shoaib Bashir (caught in the slip), but created a little history with that. KL Rahul had his name on the Lord’s honours board for the second time in his career, also becoming the second Indian player after ace quick Jasprit Bumrah to achieve it thus far in the ongoing Test against England. However, there is something more to Rahul’s 100 at Lord’s this time.

KL Rahul had his name on the Lord’s honours board for the second time in his career, also becoming the second Indian player after ace quick Jasprit Bumrah to achieve it thus far in the ongoing Test against England. However, there is something more to Rahul’s 100 at Lord’s this time.

Out on 100th 100! How KL Rahul’s Lord’s hundred made it beyond honours board

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