KL Rahul set to play in middle-order role across all formats and IPL too.

Wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul appears to be contemplating a strategic shift from his traditional role as an opening batter to a more permanent position in the middle order across various formats. Already securing a firm foothold at the No. 5 spot in the Indian ODI side, Rahul is poised to extend this transition to other formats as well.

Given the abundance of proficient opening batters within Team India across formats, Rahul’s aspiration to become an all-format player hinges on his strategic move to the middle order. Emerging talents like Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Yashasvi Jaiswal have exhibited tremendous potential at the top of the order, complemented by the consistent presence of skipper Rohit Sharma in the squad. With Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane no longer in the mix, the upcoming South Africa Test series may witness adjustments to the batting lineup, potentially paving the way for Rahul to explore his capabilities in the middle order.Speculations suggest that Gill might be considered for the No. 3 position, with Jaiswal and Rohit leading the top order. This configuration could position Shreyas Iyer and Rahul in the middle order, flanking the seasoned Virat Kohli.In the realm of T20 cricket, Rahul initially made his mark as a middle-order batter during the IPL and could revert to this role in preparation for the 2024 season. A report by Cricbuzz indicates that the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper has engaged in discussions with the management regarding this prospective shift. LSG boasts an array of opening batters, including the left-handed trio of Kyle Mayers, Quinton de Kock, and the recently acquired Devdutt Padikkal.