NEW DELHI: Former Mumbai Indians fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan believes that Lucknow Super Giants captain
KL Rahul
has always been in contention for a place in India's 15-player squad for the upcoming
T20 World Cup
, which begins on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies.
KL Rahul made his cricketing comeback after experiencing right quadriceps pain during India's loss in the first Test against England earlier this year.
Rahul was brought on as an impact substitute against the Punjab Kings as the LSG management aimed to ease him back from his injury.
Before his impressive innings of 82 from 53 balls against the Chennai Super Kings, Rahul struggled to accumulate runs, averaging 34 with 204 runs in six matches. His form raised doubts about his selection for the prestigious tournament.
McClenaghan stated that Rahul has consistently been a strong contender for a spot in the eagerly anticipated competition.
"Well, I think KL has always been a contender; it is just how well he performs in the IPL leading up to the competition. This is a very significant performance. I think his spirit will be high. I think the main thing on which he will be focusing right now is the spirit of his team. I think it is a massive win; it is a huge win, in fact, in terms of where they are in the points table," the former New Zealand pacer said on ESPNcricinfo.
Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody believes that with his blitzkrieg, the LSG skipper, who recently turned 32, has put his name on the table for a spot in the team.
"There is a cue in that particular department that the top-order batter but keeper also. He has certainly put his name on the table," Moody added.
LSG will now head to Chennai to take on CSK once more in their next match.
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