India’s star opening batsman KL Rahul played a fearless brand of cricket during the first T20I against the Australian cricket team in Mohali. He looked in upbeat mode from the word go.
From the first minute, he started to take the opposition’s attack to the cleaners like a hot knife through butter. The right-handed batter earlier came under fire for his inability to score runs at the rate of knots.
Earlier, during the Asia Cup 2022 tournament, he could garner only 132 runs at an average of 26.40. Moreover, he had maintained a strike rate of 122.22, which is low considering a player of his stature.
Ahead of the first T20I against Australia, KL Rahul addressed the reporters at the pre-match press conference. While talking to reporters, he said he has been working hard on his strike rate.
The 30-year-old showcased his mettle in the first T20I against Australia. He went on to score his 18th T20I half-century, which came at the right time. His innings was a message to the naysayers and doubters who predicted Rahul to fail in the first game.
Rahul’s best part of the game was witnessed during the third over of India’s innings when he launched one into the stands off Josh Hazlewood. He displayed exceptional wrist work to send the ball to a maximum. This particular shot drew plaudits from across quarters.
KL Rahul not only scored a half-century but also completed 2000 runs in the shortest format of the game. He scored his fifty off 32 balls where he struck four boundaries and three sixes to his name at an improved strike rate of 157.14.
Rahul was looking so good at the crease but was dismissed by Josh Hazlewood in the penultimate ball of the 12th over. The right-handed batter departed after making 55 runs. He received a huge round of applause from the fans who turned up in numbers to watch the first T20I.
Twitter Reactions:
Well played, KL Rahul – 55 runs from 35 balls, it was so pleasing to see this knock from Rahul, Important for India. pic.twitter.com/sfk95uTjrc
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 20, 2022
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So, you see, KL Rahul doesn't have to worry about, or think of, strike rates. He frees his mind and the strike rate is the natural outcome.
Advertisement— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) September 20, 2022
KL Rahul completed 2000 runs in T20I, third quickest ever, 40+ average and 140+ strike rate. pic.twitter.com/hrwMkNQ1IL
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 20, 2022
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Fifty by KL Rahul in 32 balls – what a knock by KL, a welcome return to form after the injury. He's batted really well tonight! pic.twitter.com/PtC0Z1rhHE
Advertisement— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 20, 2022
Terrific fifty for KL Rahul. He scored 50* runs from 32 balls including 3 Fours and 3 sixes against Australia in the First T20I match. pic.twitter.com/a87vG4T5uw
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) September 20, 2022
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Fantastic fifty by KL Rahul in 32 balls, Rahul looking in great touch today. #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/BKv3BqgLL0
Advertisement— Cricket is Love ❤ (@cricketfan__) September 20, 2022
New jersey but same commitment.
Great innings by the Vice-Captain.
18th T20i fifty for him. 55 runs in 35 balls at the strike rate of 157.14 with four 4s and three 6s.@klrahul • #KLRahul • #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/IKoN7pxVfe— Juman Sarma (@cool_rahulfan) September 20, 2022
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Brilliant 50 by #KLRahul just loved it happy to see that he comeback in form.#INDvsAUS #AUSvsIND #aravchoudhary #newindia
Advertisement— Arav Choudhary (@iaravchoudhary) September 20, 2022
Lol 🤣🤣his sr is higher in sena pitches rather than indian pitches
— Rishabh Dabral (@RishabhDabral7) September 20, 2022
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The range of shots KL Rahul displayed tonight were a sight of pleasure 🔥@klrahul 🇮🇳#KLRahul #INDvsAUS #AUSvsIND #KLassy pic.twitter.com/E1h9xR01lW
Advertisement— Hrideep Ranjan Thakuria (@HrideepRanjan) September 20, 2022
