KL Rahul, the prominent Indian wicketkeeper-batsman who marked his return to the Asia Cup lineup following an extended injury hiatus, has been ruled out of the initial two matches. He will be absent for the clashes against Pakistan and Nepal, scheduled for September 2nd and September 4th. The confirmation of this news was provided by Indian head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 opening match between Pakistan and Nepal.
KL Rahul, a right-handed batter, sustained a hip flexor injury during IPL 2023 and subsequently underwent surgery. However, current reports indicate that he is nursing a minor discomfort, prompting the team management to prioritize his recovery and abstain from risking his participation in the initial games. While Sanju Samson was chosen as KL Rahul’s backup in the Asia Cup squad by the selectors, it is anticipated that Rahul will regain fitness for the Super 4 stage of the competition.
Recently, KL Rahul was observed engaging in batting practice and wicketkeeping drills during Team India’s training sessions. The prevailing discomfort appears to be of a nature that will not sideline him for an extended period. Yet, if circumstances warrant, Sanju Samson will step into his role.
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Accompanying KL Rahul’s return is the reentry of Shreyas Iyer to the Indian squad after an extended interval. He is set to feature in India’s opening encounter against Pakistan. Subsequently, India will face Nepal before advancing to the Super 4 stage and eventually the final.
India’s robust 17-man squad for the Asia Cup includes Sanju Samson as a contingency plan. The tournament will adopt a hybrid model, spanning Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna are also making their ODI comeback following a successful tour of Ireland. Eager to redeem themselves after the disappointment of the 2022 edition, India aims to deliver a robust performance.