A former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend has voiced strong support for KL Rahul's potential comeback to the Indian T20 International (T20I) team. This endorsement comes at a time when Rahul is striving to regain his place in the squad, having last played a T20I in November 2022. The CSK legend believes that Rahul possesses the requisite class and temperament to make a successful return to the T20I setup.

KL Rahul, a seasoned campaigner, has faced scrutiny and has been out of favor in the T20I format, despite being a regular in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test matches. He was notably absent from the T20 World Cup team in 2024. After being released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Rahul is set to participate in the IPL 2025 auction. He views the upcoming IPL season as a crucial platform to showcase his skills and stake his claim for a spot in the national T20I side.

The CSK legend's support highlights a belief in Rahul's capabilities and potential contributions to the team. It also subtly addresses a common perception surrounding the T20 format. The perception that T20 cricket is solely about big hitting and flashy performances. The legend's backing suggests that Rahul's game, which blends classical technique with aggressive intent, can still be highly effective in the shortest format.

Rahul's journey back into contention has been marked by significant changes in his approach to the game. Former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar played a key role in revamping Rahul's technique and mindset. Nayar focused on instilling a more aggressive outlook in Rahul's batting, which was evident in his performances in the Champions Trophy 2025, where he finished matches with sixes.

The changes in Rahul are evident when comparing the current version of Rahul to the one from 2023, who faced criticism after the ODI World Cup final. Rahul has worked to improve both his technique and mental fortitude. This transformation is a result of dedicated effort and a willingness to adapt his game to the demands of modern T20 cricket.

Despite the challenges and setbacks, KL Rahul remains determined to prove his mettle in the T20I arena. He recognizes the need to perform consistently and make a significant impact in the IPL 2025 to regain the trust of the selectors and fans. His focus is on demonstrating that he has the skills, temperament, and adaptability to excel in the shortest format of the game.