BCCI uncertain on KL Rahul’s fitness as batter travels to the United Kingdom for injury assessment. The team management is perplex as scans fail to pinpoint any specific issue with Rahul’s quadriceps.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is facing uncertainty over KL Rahul’s fitness ahead of the fifth Test against England in Dharamshala, which begins on March 7. Rahul sideline since the first Hyderabad Test due to an injury. Rahul sought clarity by traveling to the United Kingdom for assessment, leaving team management to wait for his report before finalizing selections.
With few options, India sees Rajat Patidar, despite his recent struggles, as a possible middle-order addition. The situation exacerbates India’s selection quandary as they try to strengthen their lineup for the crucial final against England while navigating the uncertainties of player fitness. With the series already secured by India before the final Test. The team hopes to capitalize on their home advantage in their World Test Championship campaign.
“The medical team thought Rahul was good to go for the last three Tests. But he complained of discomfort. He is a bit concerned about it. He has endured a heavy workload while keeping wickets in the World Cup and the Test series in South Africa. Multiple scans have been done on his quads. While there is nothing very concerning, some inflammation has been noted. The reports were sent to the doctor who treat him from England. Eventually, the doctor ask him to travel to England so that he could personally check what’s wrong with Rahul. ” A BCCI source reveal as quoted by Times of India.
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Rahul’s injury woes continue to plague the team
Despite Rahul’s ongoing uncertainty following last year’s IPL injury and subsequent surgery. Team management is perplex, as scans reveal no identifiable issue with his quadriceps. With a significant gap between the fourth and fifth Tests, the management hopes to resolve the issue by March 2, seeking clarity on Rahul’s fitness status. The situation emphasizes the difficulties of managing player injuries in the face of conflicting schedules, as well as the importance of timely resolution for the team’s benefit.
“Ideally, the team management would like to see Patidar return to play in the Ranji Trophy semi-finals and find some form. But that is contingent on Rahul’s availability. If Rahul is unavailable, he may be ask to stay with the team. Even if Devdutt Padikkal makes his debut in the final Test, the team management requires an extra batter as a concussion substitute,” the source added.