Champions Trophy: Sunil Gavaskar Slams KL Rahul's Dismissal: "Don't Do Anything Stupid"

Gavaskar reacts to KL Rahul's dismissal in India's chase against England, urges players to stay cautious ahead of Champions Trophy.

February 11, 2025: India ticked off several positives in their second ODI victory against England in Cuttack on Sunday, but cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar was left unimpressed with KL Rahul's shot selection at a crucial juncture.

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A major highlight of the match was skipper Rohit Sharma's long-awaited ODI century—his first in 450 days—as he guided India with a 90-ball 119, easing concerns over his form ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy (Feb 19 - Mar 9).

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However, KL Rahul's rash shot in the 41st over drew criticism from Gavaskar, who had warned against any "stupid mistakes" moments before the dismissal.

Gavaskar’s Frustration Over KL Rahul’s Dismissal

While India had the match under control at 275/4 in their chase of 305, Rahul’s unnecessary pull shot off Jamie Overton saw him caught behind.

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"They've got it in control. India don't need to do anything stupid at this point. Just 30 more needed. Get these runs in singles if need be," Gavaskar advised on commentary just before Rahul fell. The veteran did not even react after Rahul’s dismissal, highlighting his disappointment.

Rahul's Role as Wicketkeeper-Batter Under Scrutiny

With India's Champions Trophy squad shaping up, KL Rahul is seen as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter. His inconsistency, however, has drawn Gavaskar’s criticism throughout the series.

Earlier in the first ODI, Gavaskar had slammed Rahul for going into a shell when Shubman Gill was approaching his century. Rahul ultimately fell cheaply to Adil Rashid, prompting Gavaskar to remark:

"Exactly what I was saying. You don’t have to go into a shell. This is a team game. Sometimes you want to help your partner get a hundred, but this is how it can end up— a half-hearted shot."

With just days left for the Champions Trophy, Rahul’s form and decision-making under pressure will be key to India's success.

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KL Rahul, Sunil Gavaskar, Rohit Sharma, India vs England, Champions Trophy, Cricket News, ODI Series, Team India, Shubman Gill, Jamie Overton