Indian wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul recently opened up about the notorious ‘Koffee With Karan’ episode that significantly changed his life and career. Speaking on the Nikhil Kamath podcast ‘WTF is’, Rahul delved into the deep-seated effects the controversy had on him and elaborated on how his relationship with public trolling has evolved over time.
KL Rahul, who has been a subject of intense scrutiny and criticism for his strike rate and performance over the past few years, confessed that the ‘Koffee With Karan’ episode marked the beginning of his journey with online trolls and public backlash. Whether it was during the Indian Premier League (IPL) or after India’s loss in the World Cup final last year, Rahul has faced harsh judgment from both fans and critics alike.
“The interview was a different world. That changed me. Completely changed me. I was a very shy, soft-spoken boy growing up. Then I played for India and became very confident. I had no problem being in a large group of people. People would know I had been in a room of 100 people because I would talk to everyone,” Rahul revealed during the podcast, capturing the stark transformation he experienced over the years.
Rahul, who appeared on the talk show alongside fellow cricketer Hardik Pandya, found himself in hot waters after making a few sexist comments during the interview. The backlash was immediate and severe, leading to a suspension by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Both Rahul and Pandya missed the subsequent series against Australia and were fined INR 20 Lakh each before being allowed to rejoin the national squad.
For KL Rahul, who had never before faced such severe disciplinary action, the suspension came as a complete shock. “Now I don’t (do that) because that (KWK) interview scarred me massively. Getting suspended from the team.
. I have never been suspended in school; I had never been punished even in school. Matlab woh hua hi nahi hai mere saath (All this never happened to me). I don’t know how to handle it. I did mischievous things in schools like chota mota (small things), but nothing to get me expelled from school or my parents have had to come. That (interview and subsequent backlash) was my first (fall), and then you realize how bad it is,” Rahul added, detailing the emotional and psychological toll the incident had on him.
Adding another layer to his struggles, Rahul has had to contend with public criticism regarding his performance on the field. His strike rate and intent have frequently been questioned, culminating in a series of trolling episodes that have put him under tremendous pressure. Nevertheless, Rahul speaks of these moments as learning experiences that have shaped him both personally and professionally.
The infamous ‘Koffee With Karan’ episode did not just affect Rahul and Pandya; it also weighed heavily on the show’s host, Karan Johar. Johar expressed feelings of remorse over the controversy’s repercussions on both cricketers. He acknowledged that the fallout from the episode was far more severe than anyone could have anticipated.
Behind the scenes, the BCCI’s decision to suspend both players was influenced by the need to uphold the organization’s reputation and maintain decorum within the team. While some fans and critics debated the severity of the punishment, it was clear that the incident served as a wake-up call for both players regarding their public conduct and the importance of professional representation.
The suspension, though a harrowing experience for Rahul, could be seen as a pivotal juncture in his career, forcing him to reassess his approach towards public appearances and media interactions. While it cast a dark shadow over his earlier career, it also perhaps gave him the resilience and perspective needed to navigate future challenges.
As Rahul continues to evolve as a cricketer and a public figure, the ‘Koffee With Karan’ episode remains a significant chapter in his life, etching lessons of humility, caution, and introspection. Through his candid reflections, KL Rahul offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the high-pressure world of international cricket, where a single misstep can lead to significant personal and professional upheavals.
