Not Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni or Rohit Sharma: Steve Smith names the most impressive Indian cricket player

Former Australia captain Steve Smith who is constantly pitted in a race with India captain Virat Kohli for the best batsman title, has named KL Rahul as the most impressive player from the Indian Cricket Team.

Duing a Question & Answer session on Instagram on Sunday, a fan asked Steve Smith which Indian player has impressed him the most. With no doubts, the Australian bastman replied: "KL Rahul. Very good player!"

Having played 36 Tests, 32 ODIs, and 42 T20Is, Rahul has more or less cemented his spot as batsman cum wicket-keeper in the Indian limited overs side. Thanks to his consistent performances in the home series against West Indies and Australia and in the away tour in New Zealand.

Rahul first donned the wicket-keeping gloves when Rishab Pant was injured in the second ODI against Australia last year. Since then, he has managed to keep Pant away from the playing XI.

Steve Smith also said the Indian Premier League (IPL) is his favourite tournament. “Tough to beat the IPL. Playing with and against the best players from around the world.”