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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has thrown his support behind KL Rahul, urging the team management to offer him consistent backing as an opener in Test cricket. Karthik emphasized that Rahul’s overseas performances are often overlooked and urged selectors not to have “short memories” when it comes to recognizing his value.

Rahul has re-cemented his place as the first-choice Test opener during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Initially included for a middle-order role in the 18-member squad, circumstances changed when Rohit Sharma missed the series opener in Perth. Rahul stepped up to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, and the duo stitched a crucial 201-run partnership in the second innings. Rahul’s gritty knock of 77 played a decisive role in India’s victory.

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Even after Rohit’s return for the second Test in Adelaide, Rahul retained his place as an opener, with Rohit shifting to the No. 6 spot. While Rohit has struggled in the middle order, Rahul further solidified his case with a resilient 84 in the first innings of the third Test in Brisbane, helping India secure a vital draw.

Karthik, in a conversation with Cricbuzz, said: "I believe, in KL Rahul, we have the opener that India needs. I hope they continue to back him. If, within the next year, there's a series where he has a couple of low scores, I hope people don’t have a short memory. We need to appreciate what he has done and what he is doing today. That matters a lot."

Karthik also highlighted Rahul’s consistency and impact in overseas conditions, particularly in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) nations. He added, “But, if you take any Indian team planning to tour abroad, he will be one of the first names on that list because you know exactly what you will get from him.”

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Rahul has been India's leading run-scorer in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scoring 235 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 47. His record in SENA countries since 2021 has been remarkable, with 889 runs at an average of 40.40, including three centuries.

As India looks to maintain its dominance in Test cricket, Karthik’s backing highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting Rahul’s contributions, particularly in challenging overseas conditions.