As the cricketing world turned its gaze towards Kanpur for the 2nd Test between India and Bangladesh, an intense training session unfolded in the nets, spotlighting the relationship between coach Gautam Gambhir and batsman KL Rahul. This wasn’t just any practice; it was a masterclass in technique, especially against the wiles of spin bowling, which has been a focal point for Rahul’s improvement.
Gautam Gambhir, known for his deep understanding of the game, has taken a personal interest in Rahul’s development. This interest stems not just from their professional roles but from a shared history at the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, where Gautam Gambhir was the mentor and Rahul the captain. This familiarity has allowed for a coaching style that’s both rigorous and tailored, evident in the sessions leading up to the Kanpur Test.
“Sometimes, it is just direction and I feel KL is someone who understands his game very well,” Nayar told reporters. “In South Africa, he played tremendous knocks. We are very hopeful with the kind of communication that Gautam has had and I have had with him that hopefully, we can have a turnaround in KL as well.”
“The way he was batting in the second innings is the kind of cricket we are expecting and hoping for,” Indian Batting Coach Said, “I am pretty sure going forward you will see more such performances from him.” Abhishek Nayar Said
The challenge for Rahul has been evident. His performance in the first innings of the Chennai Test was lackluster, with only 16 runs, showcasing a vulnerability against spin that couldn’t be ignored. However, his unbeaten 22 in the second innings hinted at potential, a potential Gambhir aimed to unlock. The focus in Kanpur was clear: mastering the art of playing spin, particularly through footwork and shot selection.
During these sessions, Gambhir was seen emphasizing the importance of using one’s feet against spinners. This approach isn’t new but requires precision and confidence, qualities Gambhir has in abundance from his playing days. He was observed coaching Rahul on stepping out to meet the ball, not just to attack but to disrupt the bowler’s rhythm and length. This proactive method against spin could be Rahul’s key to unlocking his form, especially on tracks like Kanpur’s, known for assisting spinners.
Rahul, to his credit, absorbed these lessons with visible intent. Initially, there were struggles; the net bowlers, mimicking Bangladesh’s spin attack, posed challenges. But as the session progressed, Rahul’s transformation was palpable. He began to dominate, stepping out and driving with authority, a sight that must have reassured Gambhir and the team management.
This special class wasn’t just about technique; it was about building Rahul’s confidence. Cricket, at its core, is as mental as it is physical, and Gambhir’s approach seemed to address both. By the end of the session, a pat on the back from Gambhir to Rahul wasn’t just a gesture of approval but a symbol of a coach’s belief in his player.
The implications of this training extend beyond the immediate match. With the Test series against New Zealand and the tour of Australia looming, Rahul’s technique against spin could be pivotal. If he can convert these net sessions into match-winning performances, it could mark a significant turnaround in his career, especially in the longer format where consistency is king.
Gautam Gambhir’s hands-on coaching in Kanpur, therefore, might just be remembered not only for the immediate context of the IND vs BAN series but as a turning point in KL Rahul’s Test career, where technique met mentorship in the most traditional of cricketing arenas.
