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Ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, former England captain Kevin Pietersen has backed KL Rahul to return to the Indian T20I squad.
According to Pietersen, Rahul is a serious contender for India's top order given his recent IPL success and his ability to win matches.
Since the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, where his performances drew harsh criticism for their slow starts and lack of impact in crucial matches, KL Rahul has not played a Twenty20 International for India.
Since then, India has turned to a younger core of batsmen, including Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Rahul's consistent IPL 2025 results for the Lucknow Super Giants have spurred fresh speculation about a potential return.
Rahul's IPL 2025 total of over 450 runs, with an average of over 45 and a strike rate close to 145, represents a significant improvement over his previous IPL seasons.
He has played key roles in LSG's successful run this year, adapting his style to suit modern T20 demands with more aggressive powerplays and better intent through the middle overs.
Speaking on a cricket show, Pietersen strongly advocated for Rahul's inclusion.
"India need experience and quality at the top. KL Rahul is a class act. He's aggressive now, he's fearless, and he's one of the best players of fast bowling. I definitely see him in India's T20 World Cup plans," Pietersen said.
He added that Rahul's ability to keep wickets also provides India with an additional tactical option.
Pietersen pointed out that knockout matches at ICC tournaments demand calm and experience - areas where Rahul, despite past criticism, could offer balance to India's dynamic young lineup.
There is intense competition in India's T20 team, for top-order spots, particularly in light of Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Yashasvi Jaiswal's outstanding international performances.
Virat Kohli's future in Twenty20 international cricket and Rohit Sharma's ability to play in the forthcoming World Cup remains uncertain.
Rahul, who has also performed as LSG's IPL captain, could give India the freedom to bat anywhere in the top three and relieve young players of some of the pressure at pivotal moments.
India's preliminary team for the T20 World Cup is expected to be announced soon, and selectors will need to choose between bringing back seasoned players like Rahul and Kohli or investing entirely in young players.
KL Rahul's current IPL form has certainly strengthened his case, and strong endorsements like Pietersen's will only add more weight to the discussion.
Rahul is still concentrating on LSG's playoff run for the time being, but a possible nationwide recall may be imminent.
