Ravichandran Ashwin Raises Questions Over KL Rahul’s Selection in World Cup Squad

By Swapneel Deshpande September 6, 2023

Ravichandran Ashwin Questions KL Rahul's World Cup Squad Selection

In a recent development, veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has raised questions regarding KL Rahul’s inclusion in India’s squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup. Despite KL Rahul’s absence due to injury during the Asia Cup 2023 group stages, he found a place in the 15-member World Cup roster.

Rahul had suffered a niggle unrelated to his previous thigh injury in the lead-up to the Asia Cup, forcing him to miss India’s group matches against Pakistan and Nepal. During his absence, wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan showcased his potential with an explosive performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup.

Ashwin said

Ashwin, known for his insightful comments, posed a crucial question to the selectors, stating, “When you have selected KL Rahul knowing that he is an important player, then he should be given a fair run. How will the team give him that is the million-dollar question. If he is in the playing XI, then people should not say that there is too much chopping and changing.”

Ashwin also praised Ishan Kishan for his remarkable performances leading up to the World Cup. He emphasized Kishan’s versatility, noting that he can serve as a backup wicketkeeper and an opening batter for the Indian team in the tournament.

Ashwin elaborated on Kishan’s role, saying, “This is not a competition between Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson because Kishan fills so many roles. When you pick a 15-member squad, you need to pick a backup wicket-keeper. Even when we pick a Ranji Trophy squad, we pick two wicket-keepers. So, Ishan Kishan is also a back-up opener along with being a back-up wicket-keeper; he is a two-in-one player.”

Kishan’s impressive performance as India’s No. 5 batter in the Asia Cup opener against Pakistan solidified his position as a valuable asset in the squad.

As the cricketing world awaits the ICC World Cup, the debate over squad selections and player roles continues to generate interest and discussion among fans and experts alike. KL Rahul’s role in the team and Ishan Kishan’s versatility remain focal points of conversation in the lead-up to the prestigious tournament.