KL Rahul says India will quickly put their bruising Test series defeat to South Africa behind them as he leads the side into a three-match one-day international series beginning Sunday in Ranchi.
India were outplayed in the two-match Test series, losing the opener in Kolkata by 30 runs before suffering a crushing 408-run defeat in Guwahati — their fifth loss in seven home Tests.
Rahul, 33, will captain the team in the absence of regular skipper Shubman Gill, who is recovering from a neck injury. The wicketkeeper-batter stressed that the team’s sole priority now is winning.
“That’s what we will focus on — forget what happened a week ago,” Rahul told reporters on Saturday.
“We’re focusing on the game tomorrow and how we can put in a collective performance that helps us win. Then we move to the second venue and try to take the series. That’s the most important thing.”
India will receive a major boost with the return of former captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both retired from Test cricket but available for the white-ball series.
“Their importance is huge,” Rahul said. “Having senior players makes the dressing room feel more confident. Their presence and experience help the team. We’re really happy they’re here.”
Bowling coach Morne Morkel said the move to white-ball cricket would give India renewed momentum.
“It’s a change of clothing colour and a change of ball, which always brings a different energy,” the former South African pacer said. “It’s important to start well because South Africa are here to win. Luckily, we have some good experience back in the team.”
India will play ODIs on Sunday, December 3 and December 6, before the two sides meet again in a five-match T20I series.
