Lucknow: For Shabman Gul The series also marks the beginning of the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup, with India playing Afghanistan in the second ODI at the Ekana Stadium here on Wednesday. The immediate goal is to win the series, but the bigger canvas is already clear. In this context, each role and each combination will be closely examined. Beyond Gill and a few established names — fitness and form permitting — not many can take their World Cup spots for granted.While the focus will remain. Rohit Sharmawho continues to make his case against age and scrutiny, a player who looks set to strengthen his World Cup credentials. KL Rahul. For a major part of his career, Rahul was seen primarily as a top-order batsman. Over the past few years, he has transformed himself into one of India’s most reliable middle-order options in ODIs. His overall numbers in the format are impressive but his record at No.5 has been significant. It has provided stability, speed and most importantly, flexibility.The Karnataka batsman can absorb the pressure when an early wicket falls, rebuild the innings without panicking and still find the gears needed for a late surge. In a format where tempo management can decide matches, Rahul’s tenacity and ability to move seamlessly between counter-attacks gives India a rare cushion.His recent form has strengthened that case. After scoring a century in the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, Rahul produced a blistering cameo in the first ODI in Dharamshala, hitting an unbeaten 39 off 19 balls to fuel India’s chase in a rain-soaked, 25-over one-sided contest.“Rahul adapts quickly to situations and formats, as he has proved in these two matches,” India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bhatole said, adding, “If you send him at any number, he is someone who will perform for you. He understands the situation. He will be a key member of the team.”Rahul handed over the wicket-keeping gloves to him. Ishan Kishan But he remains versatile in early ODIs. Whether he keeps wickets or plays as a specialist batsman, his presence gives India flexibility. when Virat Kohli Back in the mix, that flexibility could be even more important as India work out how to fit experience, youth and character-driven options into a balanced XI.India’s seven-wicket win in Dharamsala had many positives. Despite this, of Afghanistan Rahmanullah Garbaz A 48-ball century showed that the visitors have enough quality to punish any loose spells. So Wednesday’s game will not be considered a mere formality.
