KL Rahul made a promising return to the Indian team during his first net practice in Colombo for the Asia Cup. He appeared to be in good form, displaying clean ball contact similar to before his thigh injury. Despite the challenges of recovering from a lengthy injury, Rahul impressed during his sessions at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru while undergoing rehabilitation.
While his batting seemed solid, concerns lingered about his ability to keep wickets for the full 50 overs due to a groin niggle he picked up during his recovery. Rahul’s confidence was evident, as he not only took on the bowlers but also played aerial shots, occasionally dispatching short deliveries from outside off over mid-wicket.
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However, KL Rahul’s participation in the IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 match remains uncertain. India eagerly awaited his return, but his comeback presents a dilemma. Ishan Kishan, the other wicketkeeper in the team, had a chance to bat at No. 5 and capitalized on it with an impressive 82-run performance against Pakistan during Rahul’s absence. Kishan’s good form, highlighted by three fifties on the Caribbean tour, has solidified his position in the middle order.
While Rahul is an experienced batsman and would have been the first choice under normal circumstances, India faces a shortage of left-handers in their lineup, essential to counter leg-spinners. With Kishan’s recent success and the need for balance, India is inclined to wait and see who can provide the required batting depth in the team.