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KL Rahul Masters India's Tricky ODI Middle-Order Role

Since 2024, KL Rahul has averaged 64.33 at No.5/6 in ODIs, proving his adaptability.

Monday, 15 June 2026IndiaKL RahulHardik PandyaRavindra JadejaAfghanistan tour of India 2026

KL Rahul's shift from opening to the middle order in ODIs has been a resounding success. Since 2024, he has scored 579 runs at an average of 64.33 and a strike rate of 111.13 while batting at No. 5 or 6, with a boundary every 9.14 deliveries. Among batters with at least 10 innings in those positions, he boasts the highest average and the second-best strike rate, trailing only Glenn Phillips.

His impact is even clearer when compared to other middle-order batters in the same matches—they collectively struck at 91.22 and needed 11.32 balls per boundary. Rahul's 66 against South Africa in Raipur exemplified his value, as he paced the innings while teammates struggled against the old ball.

Rahul's versatility shines through his ability to adapt to different entry points and match situations, making him a reliable asset for India's ODI setup as they look toward future tournaments.