Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: KL Rahul has revealed that retirement has crossed his mind, though he insists it is still “some time away” and promises he won’t prolong the decision when the moment arrives. In a candid chat with former England captain Kevin Pietersen on his YouTube channel, Rahul said stepping away from cricket would not be a tough choice, noting that life continues beyond the sport.“I’ve (thought about it). I don’t think it’s (retirement) gonna be that difficult,” the 33-year-old told Pietersen.
“If you’re honest with yourself, when it’s time, it’s time. And there’s no point dragging it. Obviously, I’m some time away.”Rahul’s impressive international record includes 4,053 runs in 67 Tests at an average of 35.8, 3,360 runs in 94 ODIs at 50.9, and 2,265 runs in 72 T20Is at 37.75, with a strike rate of 139.He also reflected on his perspective regarding fame and importance, explaining that seeing himself as just another player helps make the retirement decision easier. “Just quit. Just enjoy the stuff that you’ve got and you have your family and just do that. That’s the hardest battle. So I try and tell myself that I’m not that important. Cricket in our country will carry on. Cricket in the world will carry on. There are more important things in life and I think this mindset I’ve always had, but ever since I’ve had my first baby, it’s just like, the way you look at life is completely different,” he said.Rahul further discussed the “hardest battle” of dealing with recurring injuries, which forced him to question his ability to continue at the top level. “There have been times when I’m injured and I’ve been injured so many times and that’s the hardest battle that you have to face. It’s not the pain that the physio puts you through or the surgeon puts you through. It’s the mental battle where your mind just gives up. When it happens so many times, your mind is just like, you’ve done enough. You’ve been lucky enough that cricket’s given you enough money. You can survive for the next how many ever years.”Looking ahead, Rahul is set to represent Karnataka in a crucial Ranji Trophy clash against Punjab in Mohali on Thursday.
