Karnataka batsman Lokesh Rahul gave the selectors some food for thought before the upcoming Australia tour after the opener struck a classy century to give South Zone a vital first innings lead against Central Zone on Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy final, here today.
Responding to Central's first innings score of 276, South rode Rahul's unbeaten 168 to end the day on 308 for three, enjoying a lead of 32 runs, at the Feroz Shah Kotla.
Rahul's knock, laced with 18 boundaries and two sixes, came in 205 balls and helped the team maintain a healthy run-rate through the day.
While Pankaj Singh (3/55) brought some cheer back in the Central camp striking three quick blows with the old ball, the day's hero undoubtedly was 22-year-old Lokesh, who showed that his 1000 plus runs in the Ranji Trophy last season wasn't a mere flash in the pan.
His easy stance, solid back foot play and flowing drives were a treat to watch and the two national selectors Vikram Rathour and Saba Karim must have been satisfied with what they saw.
The best part about Rahul's batting was his ability to capitalise on some mediocre bowling and a helpful Kotla track, where one could plonk his front foot and hit through the line.
He also proved his penchant for big scores on big occasions having reached the three-figure mark in last year's Ranji Trophy final against Maharashtra in Hyderabad.
Robin Uthappa (80), just like his namesake Robin Bist, would be cursing his luck for not converting a great start as a three-figure mark, was there for the taking.
Rahul-Uthappa duo added 168 for the opening stand but more importantly maintained a run-rate of over 4 runs per over throughout.
