KL Rahul all set to join the squad in Sri Lanka; will Ishan Kishan be dropped? 

Team India is on the cusp of receiving a significant boost as KL Rahul, their premier wicketkeeper and batter, is gearing up to rejoin the squad in Sri Lanka for the Asia Cup 2023. This development comes as a ray of hope for Indian cricket enthusiasts, who have eagerly awaited Rahul’s return to the international stage. Rahul had been sidelined due to a thigh injury that occurred during the middle of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023.

KL Rahul fully fit

Following his injury, Rahul underwent a critical operation in London and embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation program at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The talented batter has been steadily progressing on his road to recovery, having resumed batting in the nets a month ago. Rahul’s dedication to his rehabilitation journey was further demonstrated as he participated in intra-squad matches to regain his form and match fitness. 

While KL Rahul had initially been included in the 17-man squad for the Asia Cup, the decision to delay his return was made by the team’s head coach, Rahul Dravid. Dravid conveyed to the press that Rahul would not be travelling with the squad to Sri Lanka but would instead spend additional time at the NCA. His comeback would be scheduled after two matches into the tournament. 

KL Rahul or Ishan Kisha? Whom to opt for? 

KL Rahul’s impending return poses an interesting conundrum for the team management, particularly for skipper Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid. With India’s potential qualification for the Super 4 stage on the horizon, the composition of the playing XI becomes a focal point of intrigue. 

India’s upcoming clash against Nepal in the Asia Cup serves as a crucial determinant of their Super 4 prospects. Should India secure their spot in the Super 4 stage, the decision of whether to include KL Rahul or persist with the in-form Ishan Kishan will be a captivating one. Kishan’s stellar performance against Pakistan, where he notched his fourth consecutive fifty in ODIs, has undoubtedly earned him recognition and consideration for the No. 5 position. 

Moreover, Kishan’s left-handed batting style adds an element of diversity to the Indian batting order. A southpaw in the middle order can effectively disrupt the rhythm of opposition bowlers, a role that Kishan executed masterfully against Pakistan, steering India to success.

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram