KL Rahul Eyes 9000-Run Landmark Ahead of Fourth Test in Manchester
KL Rahul is just 60 runs away from reaching 9,000 international runs. With the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford starting July 23, the Indian opener eyes a historic milestone.
NewsSutra
Manchester, July 21, 2025 — As the Indian cricket team prepares for the crucial fourth Test match against England at Old Trafford on July 23, all eyes are on opening batter KL Rahul, who stands on the cusp of a significant personal milestone. The 32-year-old right-hander requires just 60 more runs to become only the 14th Indian to reach the 9,000-run mark in international cricket. This landmark, which reflects consistency, class, and resilience, is a testament to Rahul’s evolution as a mainstay in Indian cricket over the past decade.
Rahul’s chase of this milestone adds a fascinating subtext to what is already a tense and closely contested Test series. With the series currently level at 1-1, the upcoming Manchester Test holds immense importance for both sides. But for Rahul, this Test represents more than just a battle for team supremacy—it could be the match that etches his name deeper into cricket’s hall of fame.
A Decade of Steady Rise
KL Rahul made his international debut in December 2014 during India’s Test tour of Australia. Although he was dismissed for a duck in his first innings, Rahul quickly bounced back with a century in only his second match. That early glimpse of potential was followed by a steady ascent, as Rahul went on to earn his place across all three formats.
His versatility, often both a blessing and a challenge, saw him slot into multiple batting positions—from opening in Tests to middle-order duties in ODIs and even as a finisher in T20Is. But regardless of where he batted, Rahul demonstrated impeccable technique and mental fortitude. His ability to adapt his game to varying conditions and match situations is what has made him indispensable, especially in foreign tours.
As of July 21, 2025, KL Rahul has scored 8,940 runs across formats:
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Tests: 3,180 runs
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ODIs: 4,120 runs
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T20Is: 1,640 runs
With a combined tally just 60 runs short of the 9,000-run milestone, the Manchester Test could be the moment of celebration not just for Rahul, but for millions of fans who have followed his journey with admiration.
Consistency Amid Injuries and Comebacks
Rahul’s journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Injuries, dips in form, and intense competition within India’s batting order have tested his resilience. But every time questions were raised, Rahul responded with his bat.
His return to the national side after a hamstring injury in early 2024 was marked by a gritty century against South Africa at Centurion. That knock not only silenced critics but also reinstated his value as a dependable batter under pressure.
Rahul’s ability to bounce back from setbacks has shaped his legacy. Whether it was replacing Rohit Sharma at the last minute during the Asia Cup 2023 or filling in as a wicketkeeper during a crucial ODI series, Rahul has consistently showcased his team-first attitude.
Manchester: A Ground That Could Define a Career Moment
Old Trafford has a history of producing thrilling cricket, especially when India is involved. The pitch here offers pace and bounce early on but tends to assist spinners as the game progresses. For Rahul, it’s a familiar setting. He has played here before and understands the nuances of the conditions.
With Virat Kohli rested and injuries to key players like Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy affecting team dynamics, Rahul’s experience and composure at the top of the order become even more valuable. The team will rely on him to provide a strong foundation, especially against England’s potent pace attack featuring James Anderson and Mark Wood.
Should Rahul reach the milestone during this Test, he will join an elite list of Indian batters such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Rahul Dravid, and Sourav Ganguly—each of whom has crossed the 9,000-run threshold across formats.
A Look at the Milestone in Context
To understand the significance of 9,000 international runs, one must consider the limited number of players who’ve reached this landmark. In Indian cricket history, fewer than 15 players have managed it. And of those, only a handful have done so while batting across positions and formats like Rahul.
Importantly, he has achieved this while also shouldering occasional wicketkeeping duties, making his workload notably higher than most specialist batters. His ability to seamlessly switch formats and roles makes the 9,000-run mark not just a numerical achievement, but a reflection of immense adaptability.
Expert Views
Former India cricketer VVS Laxman, speaking ahead of the match, commented, “Rahul has been a silent warrior. He doesn’t make headlines like Kohli or Rohit, but his contributions are invaluable. Reaching 9,000 runs will be a deserved recognition of his commitment and work ethic.”
Meanwhile, England’s assistant coach Paul Collingwood acknowledged the threat Rahul poses. “He’s a batsman who can anchor an innings and also accelerate when needed. His footwork is sharp, and he’s got all the shots. We’ll need to be very disciplined.”
Rahul’s Impact Beyond Numbers
What makes KL Rahul special isn’t just the volume of runs but the manner in which he scores them. Elegant cover drives, deft cuts, and fearless pulls have made him one of the most watchable batters of this era. More than that, his demeanor on the field—calm, respectful, focused—has earned him admiration not only from teammates but also from fans and opponents alike.
He has also emerged as a mentor figure in the dressing room, particularly for younger players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad. With India entering a transitional phase as senior players near retirement, Rahul’s leadership and stability offer a reassuring presence.
What’s Next After 9,000?
While the immediate target is to cross 9,000 runs, Rahul has a lot more cricket ahead. With the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for early 2026 and the next WTC cycle already underway, Rahul remains a critical part of India’s plans.
Many believe he has the potential to finish with over 12,000 runs by the end of his career. If fitness and form align, Rahul could eventually be remembered among the top five batters India has ever produced.
Final Thoughts
The fourth Test at Manchester isn’t just another match—it could be a turning point in KL Rahul’s already illustrious career. With just 60 runs needed, the anticipation is palpable. Whether he gets there in the first innings or takes his time across two, one thing is certain: fans, teammates, and the cricketing world will be watching closely.
As India aims to gain the upper hand in the series, KL Rahul stands ready—not just to deliver for his team, but to mark his name in cricketing history. A milestone awaits, and if there’s one thing Rahul has shown us over the years, it’s that he knows how to rise when it matters most.
