KL Rahul, a key player in India’s Test squad, is gearing up for a new challenge: his first-ever pink-ball Test match in Adelaide. Known for its unique conditions, particularly the swing and seam movement, the pink-ball Test presents a stern test for batsmen.
“The pink ball is a bit different from the red ball, especially in terms of visibility and picking the ball off the bowler’s hand,” Rahul acknowledged. “It’s a challenge, but we’ve been training hard to adapt to it.”
India’s previous encounter with the pink ball in Australia was a disappointing one, but the team is determined to learn from past mistakes and improve their performance. Rahul expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, stating, “We’ve had sufficient practice sessions to get accustomed to the behavior of the pink ball.”
The pink ball’s impact extends beyond the batters, as it also presents unique challenges for fielders, particularly slip catchers. Rahul noted that the ball feels harder and quicker, requiring greater agility and reflexes.
In addition to the challenges posed by the pink ball, Rahul has also been adapting to a change in his batting position. He was recently tasked with opening the innings in Perth, a role that required him to adjust his approach and mindset. However, Rahul, with his experience and adaptability, has embraced the challenge.
“I’ve had ample practice time, including an India A game, to prepare for this role,” he said. “The key is to manage the initial phase of the innings, regardless of the batting position.”
As India prepares to face Australia in the Adelaide Test, Rahul and the team will need to be at their best to overcome the challenges posed by the pink ball and the Australian bowling attack.
