KL Rahul: 'We ticked most of the boxes' after India win in Galle
K.L. Rahul reacted after India’s victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, Sri Lanka, on August 18, 2026, saying the team addressed several areas of performance. The India vice-captain spoke to the media following the conclusion of play on day four.
Rahul, who the article notes can speak Kannada, Tulu, Hindi and English, was described as a bridge between the eras of Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill. Attempting to downplay the role of any single mentor within the squad, he told reporters: "It’s everybody’s responsibility to help your fellow team-mates and the dressing room here is always open. There is no ego here, and there is no shame in asking questions." He framed that approach as part of the team’s culture.
Reacting to the win, Rahul said: "We ticked most of the boxes and this will give us confidence going into the next game and we also have a big home series (against Australia) coming up next year. So just understanding batting against spin in spinning conditions is something that we have been working on." That comment linked the Test result to both the immediate fixture list and preparation for tougher spinning conditions.
Rahul singled out Devdutt Padikkal for praise, identifying him as a Karnataka team-mate. He said: "The way he batted, the tempo that he batted with and to go on and get a big 100 in the first innings really set up the game for us. The conditions were really hot and challenging. For him to get through that, get a 100, make it big and stitch partnerships, that set up this Test for us. He is someone I have played a lot of cricket with." Rahul credited Padikkal’s innings with shaping the match.
On the younger players, Rahul commented on Manav Suthar’s form, saying: "He is very consistent and hopefully he will keep getting better." That brief assessment singled out Suthar for his steadiness.
Reflecting on his own role and experience, Rahul said: "I carry calmness into every Test. Having played 60 odd Tests, there is a sense of balance and calmness now when I walk into a Test." The report added that, in a relatively young unit, that composure is viewed as beneficial.
Rahul said the victory would boost confidence for India’s next game and pointed to a "big home series (against Australia) coming up next year," underlining preparations focused on batting against spin as the team’s immediate priorities.
