Tightening up defence and giving bowlers respect in the first 30 overs of an innings has been the key to KL Rahul’s success during the ongoing series against Australia in which his other India teammates have struggled.

Rahul has by far looked the most assured Indian batter on the tour and it was on display once again on Tuesday when he produced a gritty 84 off 139 balls in challenging conditions, contributing immensely to the visitors’ 252-9 on Day Four of the third Test here.