KL Rahul, the India and Delhi Capitals (DC) batter-keeper, talked about his performances in T20 cricket and for India in T20Is. He also talked about how fatherhood has changed how he behaves.
Even though it was in a losing match against Punjab Kings, the 34-year-old hit a record-breaking 64-ball 152 not out last month in the ongoing IPL, demonstrating his development in the shortest format. The Karnataka player is still a regular in Test and ODI cricket, but he hasn't played in a T20 for India since 2022.
"Ten years ago, I would have given anything to be part of a T20 team. I was never rated as a T20 player or even considered a good white-ball player; I was branded a Test player. So, to break out of that mold and develop my white-ball game and come this far is something I'm really proud of. Along the way, I've made mistakes, and there are things I could have done better," Rahul said on the JioStar show "Superstars."
Rahul said he has tried to "stay balanced" irrespective of the results.
"But what I'm proud of is that I've given my absolute best every time I've played and prepared as well as I could to give myself the best chance to succeed. That's sport; things won't always go your way. You have to take it in your stride and enjoy the journey.
Whenever I feel low about what I haven't achieved, I remind myself of what I have, and it gives me perspective. I still have some time left. So, I'll keep trying my best and see how many trophies I can win,” he added.
Rahul and his actress wife Athiya Shetty welcomed a baby girl last year. He claimed that the new position as a father had also improved his cricket.
"Fatherhood has been the most beautiful thing for me. I always felt I had calmness and happiness in my life, but I was so wrong. You don't truly know happiness, peace, or joy until you hold your baby. When I see her smile, when she gives me a hug and a kiss, everything is forgotten: all my injuries, pain, and worries. That has helped my cricket as well over the last year.
I don't overthink the game anymore, which has made it exciting again. When I'm out there for those 4-5 hours, I'm completely switched on, and I just go out, enjoy the game, and try to do my best," he added.
(PTI inputs)
