India wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul has said that it was quite a physical challenge to play three straight days in the Asia Cup 2023. India played Sri Lanka in their third straight matchday in the Asia Cup 2023 and defeated them by 41 runs.
The scenario rose after India vs Pakistan match moved into the Reserve Day – 11 September, Monday after rain came bucketing down on Sunday to washout the originally scheduled date.
Rahul bore the brunt of it, batting on the first day and then batting and keeping in the two days after that. The batter however passed with flying colours – first scoring a century against Pakistan and then adding a crucial 39 runs in India’s lowscoring thriller against Sri Lanka.
“It was amazing throughout. It was a physical challenge for us. The conditions were not ideal. it tested us a lot and I think I was happy to see the intensity of all of us. Obviously happy to contribute to the team. Wanted to give partnerships for the team. I was out for 4-5 months so will take it whatever it comes,” KL said after the match.
“Me and Ishan had a good partnership and Rohit and Shubman started it. We were 30 runs short I felt. It’s been good,” he further added.
The India No. 5 was sensational behind the stumps today, guiding Kuldeep Yadav and taking some sensational catches behind the stumps. Rahul said that it was his job to guide the bowler through his spell and he is happy to see him succeed.
“Kuldeep has been good and my job from behind the stumps was simple. Just to keep at it and guide him. We build trust as a team and enjoy playing with each other. We are happy to get the win in the end,” Rahul said.
“Playing for three days in a row was tough and glad we passed the test,” the keeper-batter concluded.
With the win India moved to the final of the Asia Cup 2023, and will face the winner of Pakistan vs Sri Lanka for the trophy on Sunday, 17 September.
