Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Not Fully Fit, Final Call On His Availability Likely To Be Taken Next Week: Report
Published - 09 Aug 2023, 06:35 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:16 AM
The Indian selectors recently raised a number of eyebrows by not naming KL Rahul in the squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland. Many were expecting him to be a part of the team for the three-match T20I series to get some much-needed match practice ahead of the Asia Cup and the World Cup.
But while the selectors included Jasprit Bumrah in the squad, KL Rahul did not make the cut. The decision has left the Indian cricketing fraternity confused with many speculating that the wicketkeeper-batsman is still not fully fit.
KL Rahul has not played a competitive game since suffering a thigh injury on May 1 during the game between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2023. He had to undergo surgery in London before starting his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
In recent times, he has given a positive update on his fitness. He posted a video on his social media accounts where he could be seen batting and keeping the wickets with ease. However, a final update on his fitness and availability from the BCCI is still due.
Update on KL Rahul soon:
As the Indian cricketing fraternity desperately waits for an update on KL Rahul, Cricbuzz has reported that the situation surrounding his availability will likely become clearer by the weekend or early next week when the Indian batsman is scheduled to participate in a practice game in Bengaluru.
The report added that KL Rahul might need to play a couple of matches before a final decision is taken on his return to international cricket. In a worrying update, the report also claimed that KL Rahul is still not fully fit. The NCA is yet to give a green light to the BCCI and the selection panel regarding the batter’s fitness. However, his situation is likely to improve by the team the selection panel meeting takes place.
Team India will be desperately hoping for KL Rahu’s swift return to action ahead of the Asia Cup and the all-important World Cup. The Asia Cup is scheduled to begin on August 30 while India are scheduled to open their campaign on September 2 against Pakistan. But a final call on his availability will be taken only after he shows full fitness in both batting and wicket-keeping during a 50-over game.
