In Champions Trophy Match 2025, KL Rahul steals the spotlight as India’s DRS specialist
KL Rahul is demonstrating brilliance as a wicketkeeper, reminiscent of MS Dhoni, in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 match against Bangladesh. Rahul’s sharpness behind the stumps led to the dismissal of Tanzid Hasan off Axar Patel’s bowling, where his conviction prompted a successful DRS review.
Rahul’s smart decision-making in DRS calls is drawing comparisons to Dhoni, known as the ‘DRS King.’ His judgment was also evident during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he aided Rohit Sharma. Hardik Pandya noted Rahul’s proficiency with DRS, stating, “KL has graduated in DRS, he hardly gets it wrong”.
Rahul’s current form as a wicketkeeper is crucial for India in the Champions Trophy. Despite earlier reports of Rishabh Pant vying for the wicketkeeper spot, coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that Rahul is the first-choice wicketkeeper. Rahul has been honing his wicketkeeping skills under Gambhir’s guidance, and has also been focusing on his big-hitting. However, Rishabh Pant appeared to be struggling with his knee after being struck by a ball during training.