India‘s win against ODI New Zealand Vadodara was significant not only for the result but also for the tactical conversations it triggered. One decision in particular attracted attention – KL Rahul Number 6 is slotted. As fans debate whether the proven top-order batter is being underused, the former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan provided a detailed explanation, explaining that the move was both logical and forward-thinking in modern ODIs.
A tense chase sets the stage for tactical challenges
Batting first, New Zealand put India under pressure with a competitive score short of the 300-run mark. The pitch offered some grip as the innings progressed, making batting less straightforward in the second half. India’s reply was anchored Virat KohliHe once again showed his ODI prowess with 93, just short of a century. Above, Shubman Gill provided stability, ensuring that India remained in the chase despite several test runs.
As wickets fell and the asking rate hovered in the uncomfortable zone, the onus shifted to the lower middle order to seal the game – a scenario in which composure mattered more than talent.
Calm presence of No. 6 KL Rahul
Entering building number 6, Rahul immediately clarified the pursuit. Instead of forcing boundaries, he focused on the strike spin, waiting for loose deliveries and ensuring that the required rate never got out of hand. His measured approach enabled India to go over the limit, sealing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
While the shots weren’t explosive, they were exactly what the situation called for – a controlled finish under pressure.
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Irfan Pathan explains the rationale behind India’s move to retain Rahul at No.6
Addressing the debate on his YouTube channel, Pathan highlighted how the evolving nature of ODIs has changed batting roles. He noted that after the 34th over, the ball tends to go back a bit or slow down if the backswing doesn’t start – the final phase of the swing is no longer exclusive to pure power hitters. In such conditions, technically sound tattoos that can maneuver the field and control subtle movements become indispensable.
Pathan noted that while the other batsmen looked a bit restless in the first ODI, Rahul looked completely in control, highlighting the value of his technique and game awareness. Pathan explained that his continued to tick the scoreboard with singles was the difference between panic and composure in a tough chase.
“KL Rahul bats, people often ask why he bats so low. But we have to keep in mind that now the rule has changed because the ball reverses a bit after the 34th over. If the ball doesn’t come back, it’s slow. Technically correct batting makes the difference in those situations. In the first ODI, other batsmen were a bit worried, but Rahulh showed what he’s in control of. singles” Pathan said.
A role built for modern ODI cricket
Rahul’s placement at No.6 looks less like an experiment and more like a calculated strategy. With more and more ODIs being decided in the last 15, India want to deploy their most reliable decision-makers where the pressure is at its peak. Instead of exposing Rahul to the new ball or early aggression, the team management is backing him to finish games – a role that requires maturity, adaptability and calm execution.
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