I never thought I would ever say this. But yes, I have become a Rahul fan, especially his new iconic bearded look. He looks dashing and handsome. He especially looks great in those expensive leather jackets he wears, away from the media glare. But more than the looks, what he's achieved in recent times is the major reason for my change of heart.
In 2014, I thought he was useless and just brushed him off. Most people never gave him a chance. Though a section of media saw promise in him, he didn't impress me, but for occasional sparks. He looked too laidback, lazy and lacking in focus. It was as if he were doing all that only because his mother wanted him to do that.
2015 and 2016 looked decent but most of his success was thanks to his being part of strong allies. He again suffered setbacks in 2017 and looked as if he will fade off. He was unwanted even in his home state and success had become elusive. When talks about giving him leadership role, people laughed and dismissed the idea.
He looked good when he had great many people propping him up but turned out miserable when he needed to take up the leading role. But it seems, he was learning all the time and strengthening himself like the Chinese Bamboo. Then Punjab came to rescue. He has shed that diffidence and laziness. He is ready to attack his opponents and has taken leadership role with utmost elan. Though he has not registered a major victory on his own, he is building himself up for the big show in 2019.
Yes, he is firmly back on track from Punjab. Rahul has definitely grown up. He's a youth icon today. He still has the same old charm but he also has developed nerves of steel. He's even ready to taunt his opponents on Twitter. His Twitter visibility and rumours of a new girl in his life have turned him into a media darling. He is not living under the shadow of the old guard now. He might approach them for advice and technical input but on the battlefield, he is his own man. Trust me when I say this, Rahul will be the backbone on which 2019 will be conquered.
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Yes, I strongly believe Kannanur Lokesh Rahul has to play a huge role if India has to win the 2019 Cricket World Cup !
