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KL Rahul crowned India’s ‘Mr. Dependable’ after brilliant century against New Zealand in Rajkot

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Indian wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul produced a quiet but brilliant performance to rescue the hosts and post a competitive score of 284 for 7 in 50 overs against New Zealand in the second ODI at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday, January 14.

India started with promise but failed to take full advantage of it. Rohit Sharma looked fluent before being dismissed early, while Virat Kohli (23) showed intent with sharp strokes, and Shubman Gill continued his fine form with a half-century at a good pace.

KL Rahul took charge of India after the middle order collapse in Rajkot.

However, once Rohit (24) and Gill (56) were out, India’s innings lost momentum against the Black Caps in Rajkot. New Zealand’s tight bowling and slow pitch made it difficult for the batsman to score runs, as there was a period when India did not hit any boundaries for 10 overs.

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With the pressure mounting, KL Rahul stepped up when India needed him most against the Kiwis. Rahul joined hands with Ravindra Jadeja to save the Men in Blue. Playing with patience and control, he made an important partnership of 73 runs for the fifth wicket which stabilized the innings.

Sadly, Michael Bracewell ended the stand by dismissing Jadeja for 27 runs off 44 balls, but Rahul remained at the crease. From there Rahul took full responsibility.

The right-handed batsman paced his innings smartly, accelerated in the death overs and ensured India finished with a strong score. His unbeaten inning of 112 runs off 92 balls with the help of 11 fours and a six was a perfect blend of composure and controlled aggression.

Fans praise Rahul after Rajkot heroics:

After his rescue act, Indian cricket fans are appreciating Rahul. While some on social media call Rahul “Mr Dependable” and a “selfless cricketer”, others praise the Karnataka batsman’s temperament and composure under pressure in Rajkot.

KL Rahul’s stats against New Zealand are absolutely unrealistic

This was Rahul’s eighth century in ODI cricket and second against New Zealand. His third ODI century while batting at No. 5 or lower, and his third as a wicketkeeper, highlights his excellent form under pressure. Rahul’s last four ODI scores were 60 not out, 66 not out, 29 not out and 112 not out.

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His figures against New Zealand are even more impressive. In 10 ODI innings against the Black Caps, Rahul has so far scored 469 runs at an impressive average of 93.8 and strike rate of 111.13, which includes two centuries and one half-century. His unbeaten 112 in Rajkot was the highest score against the Black Caps in this format.

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