The current buzz in the world of Indian cricket revolves around the fitness status of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer.
The upcoming announcement of India’s 15-member squad for the Asia Cup, set to begin on August 30, is eagerly awaited. Rahul and Iyer’s inclusion in the squad without having played competitive matches raises important questions.
Both players have reportedly been participating in match simulations at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to prove their fitness. While Iyer has been a reliable answer to India’s No.4 batting position, with an impressive average and a knack for attacking spinners, Rahul has demonstrated versatility as a wicketkeeper-batsman.
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The discussion hinges on the risks associated with directly placing them in the playing XI for a tournament like the Asia Cup.
This issue prompted a conversation among former cricketers Ravi Shastri, Sandeep Patil, and MSK Prasad on a Star Sports show. Shastri stressed the importance of match practice before a major event, while Patil underlined the difference between practice sessions and actual competitive matches.
Rahul’s fitness appeared more positive, but ultimately, the final squad omitted both Rahul and Iyer. Instead, the selection committee opted for Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, and promising newcomer Tilak Varma in the 15-member squad.