Highlighting rahul

KL Rahul: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan heaped high praise on opener KL Rahul and said he is the link between recently-retired players and the youngsters in the team. Pathan's remarks came shortly after the right-handed batter completed his half-century during India's second innings on Monday. Rahul missed the opportunity to hit the half-century in the first essay and departed for 42.

However, the opener looked in great touch and rhythm in the second innings and went on to hit his 18th Test fifty off 87 balls on Day Four at Headingley. With the retirements of senior duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Rahul is one of the most senior batters in the current Indian touring party with over 50 Test caps to his name.

Highlighting Rahul's experience and maturity, Pathan feels that the 33-year-old is a key member of the Indian Test team and will excel in his new role.