Former India head coach Ravi Shastri established the standard for KL Rahul by stating that, given the right-hander's potential, his average should be around 50. Following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the longest format, Rahul is one of the most seasoned batsmen in the lineup, and he has thus far proven his worth by hitting two hundreds in three games. The 33-year-old gave a masterclass in the first innings of the Lord's Test, hitting his second century at the hallowed home of cricket.

Although Rahul's talent is undeniable, it is fair to state that he has not lived up to his potential in the longest format. He presently has 3632 runs at an average of 35.3, including 10 centuries and 18 half-centuries.

Rahul has amassed 375 runs in the current Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series against England, which includes two centuries and one half-century.

“I don't believe there was a single person on the planet who disputed his ability and claimed he [Rahul] lacked talent. People were irritated by the fact that, despite having such skill, he wasn't producing results. You're witnessing the finest of Rahul in this series," Shastri told the ICC Review.

The batter was then praised by Shastri for making a technical modification to his game and for how it has benefited him throughout his tour of England.

"What I'm seeing is a minor change he's made to his front foot, his posture, and his defense. Now that it has somewhat opened, his back may pass through without incident. The entire face of the blade is used, even when he strikes it toward mid-wicket, he claimed.

He has been as good as anyone technically. In particular, the series hasn't shifted much, but he has had the game to take care of that movement when it has, he continued.

"When Rahul is at his best"

Rahul now has the second-most Test hundreds for India in England (four) after Rahul Dravid (six), thanks to his outstanding performance there.

Given the forthcoming season, Shastri thinks KL Rahul is currently at his best in the longest format and should strive for an average of about 50.

"He's in his prime. The next three or four years must count for him, according to Shastri.

Additionally, he is playing a lot of cricket in India, and I can see him scoring a lot of hundreds. He should be about 50 years old, regardless of the average," he continued.

England is now ahead in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, and the two sides will meet in the fourth Test, which begins in Manchester on July 23.

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