Batter with Highest Runs: KL Rahul, The Quiet King of The Oval India Can’t Ignore

When you think of legendary Indian batting performances in England, you likely have big names like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma come to mind. But now, if we take a step back to The Oval, that famed South London ground that has seen its fair share of cricketing classics, there is one name that surely stands at the head of the list: KL Rahul. Yes, you read that correctly. Rahul stands atop the list of current Indian batsmen with the most Test runs at The Oval. And the even crazier part? He has done it in only two matches. 

KL Rahul 

KL Rahul’s impressive 249 runs at The Oval, with an average of 62.25 across four innings, feature a standout 149. That 149 in 2018 was not only one of the most pleasing knocks by an Indian opener in England, it was also the way the runs were made. Playing an impressive England pace attack in swinging conditions, Rahul combined grace with grit and played some of the most sublime cover drives we have seen all summer in England.

What further enhances his Oval supremacy is how far away from the team he has been, subject to numerous role changes and expectations. But when he came out at The Oval, he looked as natural as a player born to play in a marquee moment. Returning in 2021, his performance was still awe-inspiring, and we all knew to an extent that his performance in 2018 was not a flash in the pan.

Virat Kohli 

Certainly, Virat Kohli is the biggest name in Indian cricket, but his record at The Oval is nothing short of mediocre—232 runs in 8 innings, average 29.00, high score of 50! Crazy, huh? This becomes even more meaningful in light of Kohli’s 2014 difficulties and his quest for redemption in 2018.

The Oval just does not seem to like Kohli either. He has had starts, but has succumbed to English dismissals—the classic outside edge, misjudged leave, or late movement. He has completely dominated in other parts of England, but for some reason, The Oval sits as a sparse, incomplete chapter of his English story. His desire and intent to be dominant are unquestionable, making us believe every time he walks out there!

Rohit Sharma 

Rohit Sharma has a fairytale at The Oval too, just like Rahul. His 127 off 256 balls in 2021 was not only his own occasion, it proved that he could navigate difficult overseas Test conditions – that was an effort of maturity and timing – built patiently and then brought to life with the flamboyance we have come to expect of Rohit.

Having already made 196 runs at an average of 49.00 in his two matches, Rohit is showing that he is not only a magician in white ball cricket. The Oval showed us a side of Rohit that many have doubts about – a resilient Test opener who can bat through adversity and win the war of attrition.

With plenty of household names in the team, KL Rahul sometimes can fall through the cracks, but at The Oval, he is quietly leading the run makers in the current Indian batting order. KL Rahul has left an impression on India’s Test history with his beautiful style and determination. Now with another Test at the Oval scheduled, can he reclaim his title as India’s ace, or will it be the Kohli and Rohit show again? Only time and cricket will tell!!

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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