India's ODI series loss fuels criticism of KL Rahul's batting order

India lost the three‑match ODI series to England 2‑1, with the decisive third match at Lord's ending in a 27‑run defeat as India fell short of a target of 388. In that game KL Rahul batted at No. 6, scoring 12 off eight balls after India were already under pressure.

Former India captain and selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth used his YouTube channel to slam head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management, calling the decision to send Rahul at No. 6 a “gross injustice” and questioning whether Rahul is a No. 6 or No. 7 batter. He compared the move to earlier perceived mis‑management of Sanju Samson and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Former pacer Dodda Ganesh also posted on X, describing Rahul’s placement as “absolute waste” and urging that Rahul be promoted to No. 4 to partner with Virat Kohli, similar to his successful World Cup performances. Both former players highlighted the broader tactical and selection debate sparked by the series defeat, with calls for reassessment of the batting order and overall team strategy.