IND vs PAK: "KL Rahul's Injury Could Aggravate" - Mohammad Kaif Reacts To 'Bad News' For Indian Fans

Former India National Cricket Team batter Mohammad Kaif has said that KL Rahul getting ruled out of the first couple of games of the Asia Cup 2023 is a piece of bad news for Indian fans as his injury could also aggravate.

India have suffered a major setback ahead of Asia Cup 2023 as KL Rahul has been ruled out of the first two matches of the continental tournament due to a fresh niggle that he has picked up, confirmed India head coach Rahul Dravid on Tuesday, August 29.

In the absence of KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan is most likely to be handed the wicket-keeping gloves. However, the team management will have to make a big decision on his batting position as his best has often come while opening the innings.

Speaking on Star Sports, Mohammad Kaif said that there is no guarantee that Rahul would become fit and available for the Super 4 stage of Asia Cup 2023. He elaborated:

“(On KL Rahul’s absence) It means his injury could aggravate. If he is unfit now, there is no guarantee that he will be fit after two games. The news is not good for Indian fans because Rahul plays very well at No. 5 in ODIs. His stats are very good.

“He knows how to shift gears, is able to play big shots, and knows how to stabilize innings. You won’t get a replacement even if you play Ishan Kishan. Apart from wicketkeeping, Rahul also provides a finishing touch.”

Gill’s form has slightly dropped – Mohammad Kaif

Mohammad Kaif further highlighted Shubman Gill’s poor run of form but was optimistic about the opening batsman performing well in the upcoming Asia Cup. He also opined that the Indian top-3 will find it hard to bat in case the ball moves especially against the deadly Pakistan pace trio of – Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. He elaborated:

“Gill’s form has slightly dropped. He didn’t fare well on the West Indies tour, but I think the Kandy pitch will suit him. He loves pace and bounce. The ball will move, so the challenge will always be there for the top 3.”

“The first game is against Pakistan. There’s Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah are good bowlers. It will be a big battle. The preparation is very good.”

India National Cricket Team will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan National Cricket Team on Saturday, September 2, in the 3rd match of the event at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele.