NEW DELHI: Wicketkeeper-batter
KL Rahul reflected on his composed knock during India’s chase in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, emphasising the importance of staying calm under pressure.
Rahul played a pivotal role in stabilising India's middle order, making valuable contributions that bolstered the team’s batting strength. His versatility, shot-making ability, and composure in finishing games cemented his position at No. 6.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. Rahul’s finishing expertise was on full display as India secured the
ICC Champions Trophy with a four-wicket win over New Zealand in the final on Sunday in Dubai.
Expressing his joy in a video shared by the
BCCI, he said, "People want to know what I would do if we didn't win. I guess we will never know. It was very special, and I'm really happy we got over the line."
Chasing 252, India found themselves in trouble at 183/4, but Rahul held his nerve, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 34. Alongside
Ravindra Jadeja, he guided India home, delivering the finishing touch in a tense chase.
India win Champions Trophy title; Rohit Sharma confirms he's not retiring
Throughout his innings, Rahul focused on staying calm and backing his shots. "There was pressure, but I reminded myself to stay composed. If the ball was in my range, I would go for it. My aim was to finish the game as early as possible. I will never forget this moment," he said.
Since the arrival of
Gautam Gambhir, Rahul has reinvented himself as a player in this new era of Indian cricket. He finished the tournament with 140 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 140.00 and a strike rate of 97.90, with a best score of 42*.
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