New Delhi, October 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul said his unbeaten 129 in the third ODI against the West Indies was important not only for the runs but also for the valuable time he spent at the crease as he prepares for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
Speaking after India clinched the three-match series 2-1, Rahul said the long innings gave him an opportunity to test the adjustments he has been making to his middle-order batting. India lost the final match after the West Indies chased down a target of 352, denying the visitors a series clean sweep.
Rahul said he was pleased with his century but disappointed that India could not complete a 3-0 series victory. He noted that his previous extended innings in the ODI middle order had come against New Zealand in early January, leaving him keen to get more time in the middle.
With the 2027 World Cup approaching, Rahul said it was important to assess his preparations in actual match conditions and identify areas that require further improvement.
The 34-year-old also discussed the challenges of batting in the middle order, particularly during the final overs when the ball becomes older and softer and can generate reverse swing. Having traditionally batted at the top of the order, Rahul said he was working on improving his ability to score boundaries against the older ball and adapt to the demands of the No. 5 and No. 6 positions.
Rahul added that the ongoing series on the road to the World Cup were valuable opportunities to test India’s batting strategies. He said the team was looking beyond totals of 330-340, with scores of 370-380 and even 400 becoming important targets in matches where conditions allow.
He also highlighted the importance of middle-order batters rotating the strike quickly and maintaining regular boundary-scoring momentum. Rahul said the absence of key players such as Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel had also provided opportunities to assess other players, with the team management keen to give selected players an extended run ahead of the global tournament.
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