Upon KL Rahul’s inclusion in the Asia Cup squad in Colombo, he immediately made an impact during his first practice session, displaying a clean and confident batting style reminiscent of his pre-injury form. Bouncing back swiftly after a prolonged injury hiatus is no small feat. While rehabilitating at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, there were reports of his fluent batting, with only a minor concern about his ability to keep wickets for the entire 50 overs due to a lingering groin issue from his initial injury.
During his practice session, Rahul appeared at ease and wasn’t troubled by pace. He showed a willingness to take on bowlers aggressively, even going aerial on occasion by targeting short deliveries outside off and sending them over mid-wicket. Batting coach Vikram Rathour cautioned him about the risk, especially when facing left-arm pacers, where there’s a potential for top-edging when playing across the line. Nonetheless, Rahul continued to explore his range of shots.
India had eagerly anticipated Rahul’s return, but his absence allowed Ishan Kishan, the other wicketkeeper in the squad, to shine. Kishan seized the opportunity to bat at No 5 during a match against Pakistan, scoring an impressive 82 that played a pivotal role in India’s performance.
Kishan had also demonstrated good form during the Caribbean tour, where he recorded three half-centuries in as many matches, solidifying his position in the middle order. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar acknowledged the positive dilemma of having two strong options in Rahul and Kishan, stating that they could select between them for a spot in the team.
Under normal circumstances, Rahul, as a first-choice player, would have automatically reentered the XI. However, India’s unique circumstances led them to seek a left-handed batsman in the lineup to counter leg-spinners who typically challenge right-handers in the middle order. While Rahul has proven himself as a successful No 5 batsman, Kishan has only batted in that position once. Given these considerations, India is taking a patient approach to determine who can provide the needed balance.
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Currently, it appears that India is leaning toward persisting with Kishan, although the temptation to reintroduce Rahul is strong, given his outstanding performance in the format over the past two years.
Just over a month ago, India faced concerns about Rahul’s fitness. In a middle order that has struggled since the last World Cup, Rahul, originally an opener, remained a consistent performer. His statistics supported his suitability for the role, as he seamlessly adapted to the format while others faced difficulties in shifting gears. His added ability to keep wickets made him an invaluable asset.
During his absence, India missed Rahul’s contributions in every outing, whether it was consolidating the top-order start or playing the finisher’s role. Rahul proved to be a different caliber of batsman in ODIs.
While injuries can occur at any time, Rahul’s recovery from a thigh injury six months before the World Cup and his selection before being fully fit underscored how eagerly India anticipated his return.
Besides maintaining an average of over 50 in the middle order, including six half-centuries and one century, Rahul has excelled in various match situations. His experience will be invaluable in high-stakes events. It remains to be seen when, during the Asia Cup, India will provide Rahul with an opportunity to regain match fitness as he prepares for the upcoming World Cup. Whether this opportunity arises on Sunday or requires a bit more patience will become clearer in due course.