KL Rahul Embraces Captaincy Role Again as India Prepare for South Africa ODI in Ranchi

KL Rahul will once again step into the leadership role for India, with the regular captain sidelined by injury, as the team prepares for the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi on Sunday. Rahul, who has previously captained India in 12 ODIs, three Tests, and one T20I, said he is excited rather than burdened by the responsibility.

Rahul, who has played key roles as a finisher—including scoring the decisive runs in the Champions Trophy semi-final and being at the crease for the winning moment in the final—said he was informed only a day before the squad announcement that he might have to take charge.

“I have captained the side before. It is something that is very exciting,” Rahul said. “I look forward to enjoying that responsibility. I have always enjoyed making the right decisions for the team.”

Strong Support System Around Him

Rahul pointed out that he will continue to rely on India’s experienced core as the team gradually builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.

“I have Rohit, Virat, Jaddu—all the senior players around me who will help out,” he said. “We have always played as if we are all leaders. Whether I am captain or someone else is captain, it is always a collective effort.”

Reflects on Guwahati Test Dismissal

Rahul’s most recent outing saw him bowled while trying to drive a Simon Harmer offbreak in the final overs of day four during India’s heavy Test defeat in Guwahati. Asked whether he regretted not using his feet, Rahul said the regret lay only in poor execution.

“Maybe looking back, I could have come down and blocked it. But stepping out at that point could also have been wrong,” he explained. “It was Test cricket, last few overs of the day, and defending felt like the right option—I just didn’t execute well enough.”

Spotlight on India’s Struggles Against Spin

India’s recent vulnerability against opposition spinners, even at home, has raised concerns. Rahul acknowledged the issue but emphasised individual improvement and drawing on past experience.

“I don’t know why we were better earlier and not so good now,” he said. “We need to think about how we can do better individually—what technical changes are needed. We’ll reach out to seniors who played spin well in the past.”

With South Africa up first and tough assignments against Sri Lanka and Australia looming in the next year, Rahul’s latest stint in the hot seat could play a key role in shaping India’s long-term ODI plans.