If he plays in the first T20I against West Indies today, KL Rahul will have a chance to create a world record, surpassing the likes of Pakistan's Babar Azam, and Indian captain Virat Kohli.

The Indian batsman, who was drafted into the opening slot to replace the injured Shikhar Dhawan, hit his fifth ODI century and first of the tournament in the game against Sri Lanka at Leeds.

Tossed into a world of horror which nearly cost them their place, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have made a comeback to the team as they now look stronger and better than ever.

KL Rahul, who himself played a fine knock against Bangladesh on Tuesday, said that trying to emulate Rohit Sharma is foolish because the Mumbaikar is in a different class altogether.

Sanjay Manjrekar feels it's time for KL Rahul to convert those starts and do justice to his potential.

Before Athiya Shetty, rumours of cricketer KL Rahul dating Jannat actress Sonal Chauhan have also popped up.

In the three innings he has played as an opener, Rahul scored 57, 30 and 48 at a significantly slower strike rate.

KL Rahul attempted a reverse-sweep and was caught off a top-edge, and Twitter lashed out at the opener for the irresponsible shot.

With Dhawan now ruled out of the entire World Cup and replaced by young Rishabh Pant, Rahul looks set to open with Rohit in the remaining matches.

Pandya, Rahul and Rishabh were among the Indian team members who ensured the kids had an unforgettable time with the side. 

Shikhar Dhawan has been ruled out of the World Cup, and Rishabh Pant has been drafted in the squad. What does that mean for India's future in the tournament?

Rohit Sharma said that he is game for this new challenge as that's what international cricket is all about – clearing new obstacles every passing day.

Rahul, who made 57 off 78 balls as part of the record 136-run opening partnership with Rohit, said he is grateful to get the opportunity to realise his dream of representing his country against Pakistan.

Rahul, who scored a half-century in his maiden World Cup game as an opener, admitted that the hype around the mega-clash put him under pressure.

India's batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes that KL Rahul could provide the balance to the side in the absence of first-choice opener Shikhar Dhawan.

Kedar Jadhav shared the picture on his social media and wrote, "BHARAT KI TEAM BHARAT MOVIE KE BAAD." The photo has now gone viral on social media.

Earlier, KL Rahul was reportedly linked up with actress Niddhi Agerwal and model Elixir Nahar.

Hardik's role will be critical not just with the bat in the death overs but also as a pacer. Rahul backed him to have a successful tournament.

Rahul has more or less guaranteed his place in India's World Cup playing XI with a hundred against Bangladesh in the warm-up game while batting at the much talked about No. 4 slot. 

After India lost their top order early after being put to bat, KL Rahul stepped in at No.4 and stepped up his game as he went on to smash a century, delivering a sublime knock against Bangladesh.