'KL Rahul Isn't the Guy...': Pietersen Urges Gambhir to Keep Rahul at No. 5 for Champions Trophy, Excludes Harshit Rana from XI

'KL Rahul Isn't the Guy...': Pietersen Urges Gambhir to Keep Rahul at No. 5 for Champions Trophy, Excludes Harshit Rana from XI

Kevin Pietersen has selected his preferred playing XI for India's Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh next week in Dubai, notably leaving out Harshit Rana. The former England captain also had some advice for India head coach Gautam Gambhir, suggesting that wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul should bat at No. 5 in the playing XI. Pietersen’s recommendation came after Gambhir expressed his preference for a left-right combination in the middle order, leaving uncertainty about Rahul's batting position.

Pietersen’s comment follows criticism of the Indian team management during the recent home ODI series against England. In the first two matches, Axar Patel was promoted to bat at No. 5 ahead of Rahul. Although the all-rounder benefited from the move, Rahul struggled at No. 6, scoring only 12 runs across two innings.

Speaking to broadcasters after the final match in Ahmedabad, where Rahul played a valuable knock of 40 off 29 balls in India's dominant 142-run win, Pietersen emphasized that Rahul thrives when given more time at the crease. "KL Rahul is the kind of player who needs to settle in, and the best opportunity for that is at No. 5," Pietersen said. "He came in today with 17 overs to go, and when he has more time, he can build an innings. I don't think KL Rahul is the guy who can come in with three overs left and hit a quick 30. He needs time to get in."

Pietersen's advice comes as the team prepares for the Champions Trophy, where the focus will be on building a strong and stable middle order.

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