“Now his critics say there is no one like him” - Mohammad Kaif blasts at KL Rahul’s critics after his century in Ahmedabad

It had been nine years since Rahul's last Test century at home. In the game's longest format, he has been in excellent form of late. He has already amassed three tonnes in England, and he has a century at home to back it up.

Rahul's career has not always been characterised by outstanding form, though. Some of his weaker periods can be linked to injuries he sustained while playing well, and other periods may be the result of his frequent batting number changes and chopping.

In any case, both his position and his performances have been questioned. Following Tuesday's century, veteran Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif blasted Rahul's critics. He used social media to highlight how radically Rahul's image had changed. He went on to say that Rahul's recovery depends on his self-confidence and determination to work hard.

Kaif wrote on X, “How opinions change after scoring in few innings.. Now his critics say there is no one like him. Remember: KL Rahul's strength is his belief and hard work. That’s what makes him rise after every fall and perform despite the pressure.”

https://x.com/MohammadKaif/status/1974001038379176390 

It was Rahul's first Test century in India since 2016. Thus, it was a particularly memorable comeback to form back at home. His cool-headed century off 197 balls not only improved India's standing but also put an end to much of the scepticism that had dogged him in prior years.

Rahul had a bit of luck early on when an edge got past the wicketkeeper and first slip, and he had a lot of resolve at the crease. He then scored his first Test century on Indian soil since the historic 199 against England in Chennai in December 2016 and his second against the West Indies. 

The achievement was even more significant because it was the fourth-longest wait for consecutive home hundreds by an Indian player, with Ravichandran Ashwin holding the record at 36 innings. Between Rahul's first and second home hundreds, the wait lasted an incredible 3,211 days, which is the longest for an Indian batter to have ever experienced in Test history.

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