Lord's, England – There’s a certain serenity in watching KL Rahul bat these days—especially during the ongoing Test series against England. On Day 3 of the Lord’s Test, Rahul seemed in complete control, threading the ball through gaps with finesse, rotating the strike with ease, and anchoring India’s innings with quiet confidence.
This version of Rahul—assured, focused, and technically solid—is a far cry from the Rahul of a few years ago. Then, he was India’s utility man, shuffled around the batting order, often unsure of his place in the side. Now, at age 33, he’s back where he belongs—opening the innings, a position he’s always cherished and where he’s scored the majority of his 3,139 Test runs as an opener.
“I’ve always batted at the top of the order, even in junior cricket. It feels good to be back in that space,” Rahul said at the post-match press conference.
This resurgence hasn’t been accidental. Behind his calm exterior lies intense preparation—not just in the nets, but in his mind. Rahul has incorporated mental training techniques often seen in Formula One, focusing on reaction time and cognitive sharpness.
“In the last couple of years, I’ve worked on a few mental drills,” he shared. “Games and exercises that help improve reaction time, decision-making—that side of the game.”
The results are showing. Rahul’s batting now carries a sense of stability and rhythm that is invaluable at the top of the order. In a series where batting conditions have tested even the best, Rahul’s composed performances underline not just a return to form—but a transformation in mindset.
As India looks to assert dominance in the series, Rahul’s calm presence and mental fortitude could well be one of their biggest assets.