IND vs NZ ODI series: Rahul’s versatility, temperament make him invaluable: Kotak

Hamilton Highly impressed with K.L. Rahul's ability to adapt to the team's requirements, India's assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak has said that the seasoned batter is invaluable and has repeatedly proved his versatility on challenging tracks. Rahul is a competent Test opener, bats in the middle order in ODIs, and can effectively switch gears in the death overs.

He has endured very few failures in 50-over cricket, something that has not escaped Kotak's attention. "I think KL Rahul's biggest advantage is that he can open in red-ball cricket and bat in the middle order in white-ball cricket. Whenever required, he can also go with five overs left.

His record there is also very good. So, he plays according to the team's needs," Kotak said on the eve of the third ODI against New Zealand at Seddon Park in Hamilton. Kotak also pointed to Rahul's consistency and ability to deliver whenever he gets an opportunity, saying he rarely disappoints the team.