In the ongoing quest to fill the void left by MS Dhoni, KL Rahul has quietly but effectively redefined the role of an ODI finisher for India. While names like Rinku Singh and Hardik Pandya often dominate discussions about power-hitting and explosive finishes, Rahul has carved a niche for himself by prioritizing stability and calculated risk assessment in pressure situations.

For over a decade, MS Dhoni was the linchpin of India's ODI chases. His presence at the crease meant control, not necessarily through flashy hitting, but through a knack for turning panic into a process. Since Dhoni's departure, India has been searching for a player who can close out chases without succumbing to chaos, and KL Rahul's recent performances suggest he might be the closest modern equivalent.

The key to Dhoni's success in ODI chases wasn't just his strike rate, but his remarkable ability to remain not out. In 75 successful ODI chases, he remained unbeaten 47 times, averaging an astounding 102.71 with a strike rate of 88. This highlights his low-error approach under pressure, focusing on minimizing the probability of losing rather than simply aiming for quick wins.

KL Rahul's record in successful ODI chases, while based on a smaller sample size, reflects a similar approach. While a direct comparison to Dhoni is a high bar, analyzing Rahul's finishing through the lens of successful chases reveals his growing importance to the Indian team. He has showcased composure, patience, and smart shot selection, especially against formidable opponents like New Zealand, where his ODI average exceeds 65.

Rahul's ability to read the game and adjust his pace accordingly makes him invaluable in the middle overs. He doesn't always rely on aggressive hitting; instead, he focuses on building partnerships and ensuring a steady flow of runs, thereby reducing the risk of a late-order collapse. This approach was evident in the second ODI against South Africa in December 2025, where he scored an unbeaten 66 off 43 balls, adding crucial late firepower to India's innings. Since 2023, Rahul has been a prolific run-scorer in the death overs (41-50), amassing 424 runs at a strike rate of 142.76, the highest among Indian batsmen during that period.

Rahul's adaptability is another valuable asset. He has batted in various positions, including opening the innings and anchoring the middle order. This versatility allows the team to adjust its strategy based on match conditions and player availability. In January 2020, he scored 80 runs batting at number five against Australia, earning the Man of the Match award and showcasing his ability to perform under different circumstances.

While the search for the next MS Dhoni continues, KL Rahul is quietly establishing himself as a reliable and effective finisher in ODIs. His focus on stability, calculated risk-taking, and adaptability makes him a valuable asset to the Indian team as they prepare for major ICC tournaments. While he may not possess the same aura or mythology as Dhoni, Rahul's numbers and performances validate his importance in the crucial role of closing out ODI chases.