Tag: KL Rahul

India Squad for Asia Cup 2023: Iyer & Rahul COMEBACK, Samson & SKY OUT
The Asia Cup 2023 is set to kick off on August 30, 2023, featuring an inaugural clash between Pakistan and Nepal. In a unique twist, this edition of the tournament will adopt a hybrid format. The schedule includes a total of four matches scheduled to be played in Pakistan. One of the most awaited fixtures, the India-Pakistan match is scheduled for September 2, 2023. Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the return of their favorite players as they grace the tournament.

The Asia Cup 2023 is expected to witness the return of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul to the Indian squad, provided they are deemed fit. Their potential inclusion could lead to a decision between Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav. Given their impressive ODI records, Iyer and Rahul are strong contenders for a spot in the playing eleven. It’s worth noting that Rahul also serves as a wicket-keeping option.

To accommodate Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, India is likely to omit Sanju Samson from the squad, while Ishan Kishan assumes the role of the backup wicketkeeper. Meanwhile, Mukesh Kumar may retain his position, and Umran Malik is expected to make way. The top three of the batting lineup is set to feature skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill.

India is poised for a significant boost with the return of Jasprit Bumrah, who has regained full fitness after a 14-month hiatus and is set to rejoin the ODI squad for the Asia Cup. Bumrah’s match fitness will be honed further as he leads India in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Ireland. Additionally, the pace department will welcome back Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, who were rested for the ODI series against the West Indies.

Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya are evident choices as India’s premier all-rounders, while Kuldeep Yadav solidifies his role as the team’s primary spinner. As for the remaining spinning option, a decision looms between Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Given his versatile all-round abilities, Axar Patel seems likely to be favored for selection.
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Also Read: New Zealand Squad for World Cup 2023: Williamson to Captain, Latham Doubtful
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India Squad for Asia Cup 2023
- Rohit Sharma (captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wicketkeeper)
- Hardik Pandya (vice-captain)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Shardul Thakur
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mukesh Kumar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Yuzvendra Chahal
August 9, 2023
Asia Cup 2023 India Squad Team Players List: Samson OUT, KL Rahul IN
Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to start on 30th August 2023, with a clash between Pakistan and Nepal. This time around, the tournament is going to be played in a hybrid format. Pakistan’s matches will take place in Pakistan except for the game versus India. A total of four matches are scheduled to be played in Pakistan.

Both the semi-finals and the final of Asia Cup 2023 are going to be held in Sri Lanka. The blockbuster match between India and Pakistan is scheduled to be played on 2nd September 2023. Team India’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 is highly awaited, and fans of the ICT are looking forward to seeing their favourite players make a return.

Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul are expected to mark their respective comebacks in Asia Cup 2023. However, Shreyas Iyer is still doubtful for the tournament as he is still not completely fit after the back surgery. His participation remains doubtful, and there is a high chance of him missing out on the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 as well. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant is on the road to recovery, but he is ruled out of the Asia Cup and World Cup.

India is expected to drop Sanju Samson from the squad in order to make a place for KL Rahul. Ishan Kishan will be the second-choice wicketkeeper in the Asia Cup 2023 squad. Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya are going to be the frontline all-rounders. Mohammed Siraj will make a return after getting a rest in the series against West Indies. Umran Malik will be shown the door, while Mukesh Kumar and Ruturaj Gaikwad are also expected to be dropped.

Also read: Mohammad Haris Says Nobody Asked India To Send ‘Little Kids’ To Emerging Asia Cup 2023

Asia Cup 2023 India Squad Team Players List
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper)
- Virat Kohli
- Suryakumar Yadav
- KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
- Hardik Pandya (Vice Captain)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Shardul Thakur
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Yuzvendra Chahal
August 8, 2023
India Squad for World Cup 2023: Chahal, SKY OUT; Rahul, Samson IN
ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is scheduled to start on 5th October 2023. This time the World Cup is going to be played in India and the fans of the ICT are hoping for a spectacular turn of events for their team in the tournament. ODI World Cup 2023 schedule is undergoing a few changes, and it has been said that India vs Pakistan match will take place on 14th October 2023 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This blockbuster encounter is one of the games alongside the semifinals and finals that India need to win to be crowned the champions. However, the Indian Team is still struggling to fight the right combinations.

KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Shreyas Iyer are fighting with injuries. Suryakumar Yadav has failed to perform in the ODIs so far. Sanju Samson has been given only a few opportunities despite his brilliant record in the ODIs. The problem of finding a stable number four is still with India. The Indian Cricket Team management has failed to find a number four for the ODI World Cup 2023; now, everything depends on the fitness of Shreyas Iyer.

Jasprit Bumrah has successfully recovered from his back injury and has been appointed as the captain for the Ireland T20I Series, as Hardik Pandya takes some rest. The Indian pacer is on track to regain full fitness for the World Cup 2023. KL Rahul is also close to achieving match fitness and will be eligible for selection before the Asia Cup 2023. However, uncertainty remains regarding Shreyas Iyer’s future. Team India will be without Rishabh Pant’s services in the upcoming ODI World Cup. Yuzvendra Chahal is also expected to be dropped from World Cup 2023 plans.

Also read: Australia Playing 11 of World Cup 2023: Marsh, Maxwell, Stoinis, Green in Middle-Order

Team India Squad for ODI World Cup 2023
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper)
- Virat Kohli
- Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
- KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
- Hardik Pandya (Vice Captain)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shreyas Iyer
- Shardul Thakur
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mukesh Kumar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Ravi Bishnoi
Team India Playing 11 ICC ODI World Cup 2023
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
August 7, 2023
Team India Squad for Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Returns, Sanju Samson Dropped
Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to start on 30th August 2023, with a clash between Pakistan and Nepal. This time around, the tournament is going to be played in a hybrid format. Pakistan’s matches will take place in Pakistan except for the game versus India. A total of four matches are scheduled to be played in Pakistan. Both the semi-finals and the final of Asia Cup 2023 are going to be held in Sri Lanka. The blockbuster match between India and Pakistan is scheduled to be played on 2nd September 2023. Team India’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 is highly awaited, and fans of the ICT are looking forward to seeing their favourite players make a return.

Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul are expected to mark their respective comebacks in Asia Cup 2023. However, Shreyas Iyer is still doubtful for the tournament as he is still not completely fit after the back surgery. His participation remains doubtful, and there is a high chance of him missing out on the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 as well. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant is on the road to recovery, but he is ruled out of the Asia Cup and World Cup.

India is expected to drop Sanju Samson from the squad in order to make a place for KL Rahul. Ishan Kishan will be the second-choice wicketkeeper in the Asia Cup 2023 squad. Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya are going to be the frontline all-rounders. Mohammed Siraj will make a return after getting a rest in the series against West Indies. Umran Malik will be shown the door, while Mukesh Kumar may retain his place.

Also read: Asia Cup 2023: Babar Azam to Play Without Central Contract

India Squad for Asia Cup 2023
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper)
- Virat Kohli
- Suryakumar Yadav
- KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
- Hardik Pandya (Vice Captain)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Shardul Thakur
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mukesh Kumar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Yuzvendra Chahal
Team India Playing 11 for Asia Cup 2023
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Suryakumar Yadav
- KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
- Hardik Pandya (Vice Captain)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Shardul Thakur
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
August 5, 2023
Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Fit, Shreyas Iyer Doubtful

Indian Cricket Team has received a significant boost with KL Rahul expected to be fit for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023, which is scheduled to take place from August 30 to September 17. The right-hand batsman, who underwent surgery on his thigh, is likely to be fully prepared for the Continental Cup. However, there is no update on Shreyas Iyer’s status yet, as he underwent back surgery in April.

After being sidelined due to a thigh injury, the captain of the LSG (Likely referring to the Indian Cricket Team) is now back to full fitness. KL Rahul shared a video on Instagram showcasing his wicketkeeping and batting drills. Initially, there were concerns about his availability for the Asia Cup, but recent reports indicate that the 32-year-old is completely fit and ready for selection. He had missed the WTC Final and the West Indies series due to the injury.

The LSG captain’s comeback to the squad will offer India valuable balance, given his role as the designated wicketkeeper in the ODI squad.According to a source from the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy in Bangalore, the coaches and medical experts are content with Rahul’s progress and recovery.

Also read: How to Book Cricket World Cup 2023 Tickets

Currently, India has been employing Ishan Kishan as the wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs. During the New Zealand ODI series, the left-hander was experimented with in the middle order, but unfortunately, he struggled to find his form.

With KL Rahul’s return, the team will have the flexibility to play an additional batsman or bowler. The LSG captain has demonstrated remarkable performances in ODIs over the past year, maintaining an average of over 50 and an impressive strike rate of 95.

With KL Rahul’s return, he will reclaim the wicket-keeping spot in the team. However, Shreyas Iyer’s recovery process after back surgery is still ongoing. The right-hand batsman has been facing challenges as he continues to recuperate from his back injury, which he sustained during the Sri Lanka series. Consequently, Iyer was unable to participate in the entire season of IPL 2023, as well as the WTC final and the West Indies series.

August 5, 2023
Pragyan Ojha Criticizes Resting Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ODIs, Emphasizes Importance of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer for World Cup Squad
Former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has expressed his views on the decision to rest Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for the last two ODIs against West Indies. Although India won the series 2-1, Ojha believes that the purpose behind resting the senior players was not fully achieved.

The rest of Kohli and Rohit just before the World Cup has been a topic of debate and has not been well-received by the Indian cricket community and fans, who feel that the team’s dependence on these players was evident during their absence.

In the first ODI, India lost five wickets while chasing down 115, and in the second ODI, their batting lineup struggled and was bowled out for 181. Ojha emphasized the importance of pacing the innings and suggested that the young players given opportunities should learn how to do so in a 50-over game.
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Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Salman Butt Urges India to Finalize World Cup Squad, Criticizes Frequent Changes in Squads
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Regarding the upcoming World Cup, Ojha stressed the significance of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer in the squad. Rahul is reportedly fit and available for selection for the Asia Cup, which will be played in Pakistan and Sri Lanka from August 30 to September 17.

Ojha believes that both Rahul and Iyer are crucial for India in the World Cup and the Asia Cup, and he expects them to be considered for the team. He mentioned that both players could solve the batting conundrum at numbers four and five, with Iyer batting at four and Rahul at five in the World Cup.

According to Ojha, both players possess the required consistency, experience, form, and the ability to contribute to the team’s success. The team is looking for players to fill the crucial batting positions at number four and number five, where they have faced challenges in the past.
August 5, 2023
ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Salman Butt Urges India to Finalize World Cup Squad, Criticizes Frequent Changes in Squads
Salman Butt, the former Pakistan skipper shared his thoughts on India’s loss against West Indies in the first T20I in Trinidad. India fell short by four runs while chasing down 150 to win the match. Butt spoke about the resting of senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma during the ODI series, suggesting that sending an India ‘A’ team for the tour would have been a better option.

He also expressed concern about India’s squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup, stating that by now, the team should have identified their 15 players for the tournament instead of making frequent changes in squads for every series.

Butt highlighted that India seemed to lack control against spinners, which was unusual for a traditionally strong team against spin bowling. Regarding the ODI World Cup, Butt suggested recalling players like Shikhar Dhawan and Ajinkya Rahane, praising Rahane’s impressive performances in the IPL and Test cricket comeback.
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Also Read: Aakash Chopra Expresses Concerns over Sanju Samson’s Batting Position in T20Is
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He further proposed that Dhawan could be paired with Shubman Gill as the opener, while Rohit Sharma could bat at No. 3, providing the team with experience in crucial games. Butt emphasized the need for an experienced batter at No. 6, suggesting Ajinkya Rahane or KL Rahul as potential options.

India’s Asia Cup squad might offer insights into the players likely to be selected for the World Cup, but the management is currently worried about the injury concerns of a few players ahead of these tournaments.
August 5, 2023
Indian Cricket Team Faces Uncertainty Ahead of ICC World Cup 2023: Aakash Chopra
Ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup, the Indian cricket team faces a challenging situation with uncertainties surrounding the availability of key players due to injuries. Aakash Chopra, former India opener, shed light on the team’s predicament, stating that the experimentation in the middle order might be a consequence of circumstances beyond their control.

Expressing his thoughts during an interview, Aakash Chopra mentioned, “The hands are tied. I was critical of the squad when they tried too much in the ODI series, using three different batters at no. 3 and 4 in three different games. And you start asking questions about what the team is going to do.”

One of the major concerns revolves around KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s availability. KL Rahul is unlikely to participate in the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka due to a hamstring injury, requiring more time for recovery. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer’s involvement in the World Cup remains uncertain as he is dealing with a lower back stress fracture, which needed surgery.
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Also Read: Ireland Squad for T20I Series against India: Paul Stirling Named Captain
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The lack of a clear timeline for the return of these key players has put the team management in a difficult position. With their participation in doubt, the management seems to be exploring other options, leading to the experimentation witnessed in the recent ODI series.
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Also Read: India Squad for Ireland Series: Bumrah Named Captain, SKY & Pandya Rested
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“Will Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul be present? Or is there a hint that things may not be available and that these folks are looking for alternatives? According to the most recent sources, the latter appears to be the case. You are not to fault in this scenario. It’s not by design, in my opinion. I believe they are grasping at straws, hoping that whatever we have will suffice in the expectation that all of our key players will be fit. I hold no grudge against the team’s leadership. India is in a difficult situation,” explained Aakash Chopra.

Undoubtedly, the team management faces a challenging situation. The upcoming Asia Cup in Sri Lanka will be a crucial testing ground for the Indian cricket team as they strive to find the right combination in the absence of key players.

While the experimentation might raise some eyebrows, it appears to be a result of the uncertainty surrounding Rahul and Iyer’s availability. As the ODI World Cup approaches, the Indian team must strike a balance between trying out new players and ensuring stability in the lineup. The hope remains that KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will recover in time for the prestigious tournament.
August 5, 2023
3 Players Who Could Lead India in T20 World Cup 2024
As cricketing fans eagerly anticipate the T20 World Cup 2024, discussions around India’s captaincy have already started gaining momentum. Since, Virat Kohli has stepped down the captaincy of Indian Team in the shortest format of the game. Rohit Sharma has been an exemplary leader, but he couldn’t lead India to the victory in the past Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup. There are a few other players in the Indian cricket team who have the potential to don the captain’s armband and lead the team to glory. In this article, we will explore three such players who could be considered as the captain of the Indian Team in T20 World Cup 2024.
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Also Read: India Joins Pakistan in Elite Club, Celebrates Historic 200th T20I Appearance
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3 Players Who Can Be India’s Captain in T20 World Cup 2024

1) Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya’s journey in international cricket has been nothing short of inspiring. The dynamic all-rounder has showcased his prowess with both the bat and ball and, more recently, demonstrated his leadership skills as well. Leading debutant side Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022, Pandya showcased exceptional captaincy, guiding the franchise to their maiden title in their debut season. His almost unblemished record while leading the side and taking them to the finals of IPL 2023 solidifies his credentials as a potential captaincy candidate for India in the T20 World Cup 2024.

2) KL Rahul

KL Rahul has been a vital cog in the Indian cricket team and has earned the role of vice-captain in all three formats. In the absence of marquee players due to injury, Rahul has donned the captain’s hat for India, proving his leadership acumen. Although India faced defeats in all three ODI matches against South Africa under his leadership earlier this year, Rahul turned the tables with a fantastic captaincy stint guiding the Lucknow Super Giants to the finals in the IPL. His experience as a vice-captain and his ability to lead a team in the IPL make him a strong contender for the captaincy role.

3) Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah’s reputation as a lethal bowler is unquestionable. As the leader of India’s pace attack in all formats, Bumrah’s on-field presence and experience make him a potential captaincy candidate for the T20 World Cup 2024. His involvement in the team’s leadership group is evident, and he has been a key match-winner for India over the years, shifting the momentum in favor of the team with his breathtaking spells. Highly rated by former international cricketers, Bumrah’s ability to handle pressure and make tactical decisions on the field further strengthens his case for captaincy consideration.
August 4, 2023
KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer to Return in India vs Australia Series Ahead of ICC ODI World Cup 2023 – Reports
KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are eyeing a comeback through the India vs Australia ODI series as they aim to secure a spot in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. The roster for the Asia Cup 2023 is not expected to include them due to their ongoing recovery from injuries, but they will have the opportunity to prove their fitness and form during the three-match series against Australia.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has advised against rushing any players into international action, despite updates on social media regarding KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s fitness progress. If they fully recover, they could be contenders for the ODI World Cup later this year, and their return might be expected during the India vs Australia ODI series in September.

With KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer unavailable, most of the players who recently participated in the three-match ODI series against West Indies are likely to be part of the six-team Asia Cup competition in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The return of Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah will likely result in some changes in the bowling lineup.

India’s home season in 2023-24 is set to include 16 international matches, comprising five Tests, three ODIs, and eight T20 Internationals.
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Also Read: Mickey Arthur and Grant Bradburn to Continue Coaching Pakistan Cricket Team at World Cup 2023
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The home season will kick off with the Australia visit, featuring a three-match India vs Australia ODI series in Mohali, Indore, and Rajkot before the World Cup. Following the 50-over World Cup, Australia will return for a T20I series starting on November 23 in Vizag and ending on December 3 in Hyderabad.

While KL Rahul might still be in contention for a spot, Ishan Kishan seems to be securing his position as the wicketkeeper for both the Asia Cup and the World Cup. His inclusion in the squad will lead the team management to decide on the opening lineup when Rohit Sharma returns to the starting XI. Early indications suggest that Ishan and Rohit will open the batting, with Shubman Gill potentially moving to the middle order.

The final lineup and batting order will be determined during the Asia Cup training camp, scheduled to take place in Bengaluru from August 24 to August 29. India’s first opponent in the tournament will be Pakistan in the opening game on September 2.
August 3, 2023