Vadodara, Jan 14 (UNI) India batter KL Rahul has shed light on the challenges players face when opportunities at the highest level are limited, stressing the importance of patience, continuous self-improvement, and mental resilience.
In a video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Rahul said that being out of the playing XI for extended periods is part of a cricketer’s journey and that players must stay prepared to seize chances whenever they arise.
“It’s not like you’ll never get an opportunity. You might be sitting outside for two or three years. If you don’t get a chance in one series, you’ll get some other tournament to perform and show your skills and talent,” Rahul said.
The senior batter underlined that consistent work on one’s game is the only aspect within a player’s control. “You just have to constantly keep working on yourself and keep yourself ready. If you get a single chance, you have to perform in such a way that you can’t be dropped after that. But even then, you have to enjoy the process,” he added.
Rahul acknowledged that such phases can be mentally taxing, even for established players. Reflecting on periods of frustration, he said the experience is not unique to any individual.
“I was thinking, what if the same thing happens to an elite player? That phase is difficult for everyone. It’s not like no player goes through that phase. You’ll get angry and frustrated, but you have to snap out of it and not let it affect you,” he said.
The Indian batter reiterated that focusing on effort rather than circumstances is crucial. “There’s no other option for the player. That’s all you have in your hands. I’ll do what’s in my hands, and when God gives me a chance, I’ll use it,” Rahul said.
