IND vs NZ: KL Rahul Reflects On Difficult Phase Ahead Of 2nd ODI, Says 'No One Can Stay At The Top Forever...'

IND vs NZ: Wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul is one of the most dependable players in the Indian line-up. However, there was a time when the Cricketer underwent a difficult phase with the bat, failing to live up to the standards he was known for. In a video released by the BCCI (Board of Cricket Control in India), Rahul was seen sharing his experience with a group of young cricketers during Team India’s training session in Vadodara.

Notably, the first ODI was clinched by Team India as they defeated the visitors by four wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the series.

The 33-year-old Rahul was spotted observing and responding to questions posed by the younger players.

ALSO READ: Mumbai Indians Women vs Gujarat Giants Women Head To Head Records | WPL 2026 Match 6 Key Updates

Responding to a question by a youngster, the Karnataka-born player asked him to keep working hard and stay ready for opportunities.

🗣️ 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆.

🎥 Words of wisdom from @klrahul as he shared his knowledge and inspired budding cricketers during #TeamIndia's training session in Vadodara. 🙌#INDvNZ |…

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 13, 2026

“You will definitely get a chance to show your talent, whether it’s in a domestic, international, or local tournament. You just have to work hard and be ready when your opportunity comes, and grab it with both your hands. As a cricketer, it’s the only thing we can do,” Rahul said in the video.

“It’s a difficult phase for everyone when we do not get a chance, but everyone has to go through that phase. No one can stay at the top forever. There will be anger and frustration, but try to snap out of it and do what is in your control, and leave the rest to God. Whenever God gives you a chance, use it wisely,” he added.

Rahul played a fiery knock in the first ODI at the BCA Stadium. He finished the game in style by hitting two fours and a six in the 49th over to help India beat New Zealand by four wickets. Rahul scored 29 runs off just 21 balls, including two fours and a six.

ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Shreyas Iyer On Cusp Of Breaking Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan's Major Record In ODI

KL Rahul will be in action again on Wednesday when India take on New Zealand at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot in the second ODI of the three-match series.

Inputs from Agency