KL Rahul Puts Country First, Prioritizes England Tests Over Newborn Child

KL Rahul Prioritizes Nation Over Family Ahead of England Test Series

A new father's instinct might be to dedicate every waking moment to his newborn child. However, KL Rahul demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the nation by prioritizing the upcoming England Test series.

India's KL Rahul walks off the field (AP Photo/Scott Heppell)

Before diving into IPL 2025 training, Rahul expressed his dedication to Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani with a clear message: "Country first...I care for this team." This statement underscored his focus on the crucial England Test series.

With Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill's absence from the Test squad, Rahul is expected to assume a leadership role, guiding the team with his experience.

Badani noted Rahul's proactive approach: "I really liked the fact that he was someone who said, ‘I want to go to England early. I want to play the side game.’" This eagerness to prepare and contribute to the team impressed the coach.

He further emphasized the significance of Rahul's decision, "Let’s not forget, he’s a young father, and I don’t think his child is travelling with him initially. So for him to say, ‘Country over my child’ — that’s a huge call."

Rahul's actions mirrored his words. He arrived in England ahead of schedule and participated in the unofficial Test against England Lions, making a strong statement with impressive scores of 116 and 51.

In the first innings, he provided a solid foundation with a score of 42. He solidified his presence with a well-crafted 137 off 247 balls in the second innings, propelling India to a total of 364.

Having previously toured England for Tests in 2018 and 2021, Rahul's experience is invaluable. He is now a senior figure, mentoring younger players like Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Badani highlighted Rahul's commitment: "KL made a statement I remember ahead of the Test series: ‘I care for this team, and I want to be here.’ He wanted to go to England. I could see the hunger in his eyes and in his words."

He added, "In terms of maturity and technique, you can clearly see he’s more focused now. He knows he has to fill the vacuum left behind... So he has to guide players like Sai Sudharsan, Jaiswal, Shubman Gill..."

KL Rahul has become a crucial link between India's cricketing legacy and its future aspirations. His role extends beyond scoring runs; it encompasses leadership, responsibility, and setting the standard for a new generation.