After their underwhelming T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, Team India’s focus now shifts to the home series against New Zealand, comprising three T20Is and two Tests.
The series will get underway on November 17 in Jaipur with the first T20I and ahead of the game, India’s T20I deputy KL Rahul said being the side's vice-captain will bring an additional responsibility for him.
With Virat Kohli quitting his position as captain in the shortest format after the T20 World Cup 2021, Rohit Sharma has been named India’s T20I skipper while Rahul has been appointed as vice-captain.
Rahul is also looking forward to work alongside Rahul Dravid, who has been appointed as India’s new head coach after Ravi Shastri’s tenure came to an end with the conclusion of T20 World Cup.
"Yes, there will be an added responsibility but it is something I have enjoyed doing, the most important thing would be to create an atmosphere in the dressing room where people coming in feel happy and welcome and they go out there and express themselves. Rahul Dravid comes in as well, really looking forward to the next two weeks with the new coaching staff," said Rahul while replying to an ANI query during a virtual press conference on Monday (November 15).
All-rounder Hardik Pandya hasn’t been named in India’s T20I squad for the home series against New Zealand.
When enquired about Hardik’s exclusion, Rahul said: "Quite honestly, I mean I do not know if that has happened. He knows exactly what he needs to do and what is expected out of him. He is smart enough to understand that."
Talking about the influence of legendary Rahul Dravid, KL Rahul said: "Look, I have been fortunate to know him for a very long time. As a youngster, I did try to pick his brain. He was very helpful to all of us back home in Karnataka. He has helped boys across the country, having him here with us as a part of that setup will give us an opportunity to learn."
"We all know how big a name Rahul Dravid is, we have a great opportunity to learn from him and get better as cricketers. When it comes to coaching, I have played a couple of games with India A setup, he is somebody who has a great understanding of the game and creates an atmosphere where everybody is comfortable. He has always been a team man," he added.
(With ANI inputs)
