Cricket legend Mohammad Kaif recently applauded KL Rahul’s stunning century against the West Indies in Ahmedabad, highlighting the batsman’s incredible comeback after years of facing criticism and injuries. Rahul’s resilient knock of 100 runs from 197 balls, featuring 12 boundaries, marked his first home century since 2016 and only his second ever on Indian soil. This achievement places him in an exclusive club of Indian openers, alongside greats like Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag, and Murali Vijay, who have all scored ten or more Test centuries.
Kaif celebrated this milestone on X, subtly calling out critics who had previously doubted Rahul’s place in the squad. He wrote, ‘How opinions change after scoring in a few innings… Now his critics say there is no one like him. Remember: KL Rahul’s strength is his belief and hard work. That’s what makes him rise after every fall and perform despite the pressure.’
This powerful message resonated deeply with fans, underscoring Rahul’s arduous but ultimately triumphant return to peak form. His previous home Test century was way back in December 2016 against England in Chennai, making his latest feat a monumental comeback after a 3,211-day wait—the longest such gap for any Indian batsman between two home Test hundreds.
Indeed, Rahul’s resurgence has been a significant boost for India this year. He has proven to be the team’s most reliable opener across various conditions, accumulating 649 runs in just seven matches at an impressive average of 54.08, including three centuries. His exceptional performance in England earlier this year, where he scored 532 runs in 10 innings at an average of 53.20, further solidified his position.
Kaif’s words perfectly capture Rahul’s inspiring journey, emphasizing that unwavering belief and diligent hard work are his most potent tools, ensuring that each comeback is even more powerful than the setback before it.