India’s stand-in ODI captain, KL Rahul, has said that in the 50-over format, singles are as important as fours and Virat Kohli is a master at running quick singles between the wickets, highlighting the latter’s importance in India’s ODI setup ahead of the three-match series against South Africa.
With Rohit Sharma and Kohli now featuring in only one international format and India all set to play just six ODIs in the next two months,
three against South Africa and three at home against New Zealand, the pressure has never been higher on two of the nation’s modern-day greats.How they perform in these matches could influence Rohit and Kohli’s prospects for the 2027 ODI World Cup. While it would not determine their futures, it marks the start of a high-stakes
audition, one that could either prolong two iconic careers or edge them closer to an inevitable sunset.
“Their importance at any point is huge. To have senior players in the team obviously makes the dressing room feel a lot more confident. Having their presence and experience helps out a lot of players and helps the team,” Rahul said while speaking at the pre-match press conference.
“In ODIs, singles are as important as boundaries. Virat is a master at that. We all keep learning from him. He is excited to be back and his presence is always invaluable,” Rahul added.
The star Indian batter confirmed that he will remain at No. 6, a position he said fits the side’s balance now that Rohit and Kohli have returned to the top order.
“His experience is invaluable for us,” Rahul said, adding that the final XI will be confirmed on match day. He added that if selected, Rishabh Pant will be the wicketkeeper and not him.
Rahul acknowledged that the side is still fine-tuning its batting, shot selection and pacing, but noted that the presence of experienced cricketers provides much-needed stability.
