India started the ODI series against South Africa with a bang as they clinched a thriller in the opener, thanks to a phenomenal century from Virat Kohli. KL Rahul, who captained India in the absence of an injured Shubman Gill, essayed a phenomenal knock of 60 runs, imparting some late momentum to India's total of 349 in 50 overs.

Talking at the post-match presentation, KL Rahul expressed his emotions about the win while highlighting the rationale behind batting at number six. He also had a message for South Africa, which kept the game alive till the very end.

Expressing his feelings about the win, Rahul said, “I'd be lying if I said none (when asked if he had butterflies in his stomach) at all. I think throughout the 50 overs I was obviously playing ODI cricket after a while and getting to captain the country again, it's obviously, there's a bit of expectation from myself and obviously from everyone else that's given me the responsibility.”

He further added, “So yeah, a little bit of butterflies, but I think we kept picking wickets at the right time, and we were very clear and very thorough with our plan, and it was good to see that the bowlers stuck to that. There was a sense of calm as we, though, ut outbut obviously they pushed us, and they kept coming, hard, so it was exciting.”

He also explained the reason behind coming in at number six, stating, “I mean, got to do the job for the team and that's the role that's been given for the last 2 or 3OI series, and I'm trying to do my best and find fun in doing different responsibilities and challenging myself, challenging my game. I think it's good for personal development as well, so I keep thinking about the game and how I can get better.”