Sunil Gavaskar has seen greatness. And on Wednesday, he saw it again in KL Rahul.
The legendary Indian cricketer, now a commentator and expert, had massive praise for the 33-year-old batter after his unbeaten century against New Zealand in the second ODI at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium.
Rahul walked in at No. 4 after Shreyas Iyer’s dismissal. And he didn’t just bat—he anchored. He faced 92 balls, smashed 112 runs with 11 fours and a six, and stayed till the very end. India didn’t win. But Rahul won hearts.
And Gavaskar? He couldn’t stop raving about him.
According to the man who scored over 10,000 Test runs for India between 1971 and 1987, Rahul is India’s modern-day crisis man. Just like Rahul Dravid was in his era.
“Look, he’s always been a class act. He’s always been a wonderful, wonderful batter to watch. He’s got everything in the book—the technique, the temperament, and the range of shots,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports.
“He is the crisis man, just like another Rahul from Karnataka, Rahul Dravid. Whenever there is trouble, you can depend on him. You’re breathing easy, knowing that he will take care of whatever is happening,” Gavaskar added.
And it’s not just one position. Rahul has done it everywhere.
Opening. Middle order. No. 4, 5, or 6. Doesn’t matter. He handles pressure like it’s his superpower.
“You saw the way he handled that pressure situation and took the team home. This time around, he’s given them at least 40–50 more runs than what otherwise would have happened,” Gavaskar said.
KL Rahul didn’t just score a century. He reminded everyone why he’s irreplaceable.
