In a recent turn of events, KL Rahul, the middle-order batter for India, has been sidelined from the upcoming third Test against England in Rajkot. Devdutt Padikkal, in good form, has been named as his replacement. Here’s the latest update:
India’s middle-order batter KL Rahul will miss the crucial third Test against England in Rajkot. His absence comes as a precautionary measure, with the right quadriceps injury that sidelined him from the Visakhapatnam Test still requiring attention. Rahul, along with Jasprit Bumrah, was expected to join the squad on Monday, but he remains at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
Contents
Squad for 3rd Test:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Rajat Patidar
- Ravindra Jadeja
- KS Bharat (wk)
- Dhruv Jurel (wk)
- Axar Patel
- R Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Washington Sundar
- Jasprit Bumrah (vc)
- Mohammed Siraj
- Mukesh Kumar
- Akash Deep
- Devdutt Padikkal
Rahul’s Recovery Journey:
- Progressing well, reaching 90% match fitness.
- Supervised by the BCCI Medical Team.
- Continued recovery at the National Cricket Academy.
Devdutt Padikkal’s Maiden Call-up
In Rahul’s absence, 23-year-old Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal has earned his maiden Test call-up. Padikkal, fresh from an impressive first-class season, showcased his form with a recent innings of 151 against Tamil Nadu. This marks his third century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, adding to his 105 against England Lions in the second unofficial Test.
Padikkal’s Noteworthy Achievements:
- Maiden Test call-up amidst a successful first-class season.
- Consistent performances with centuries in the Ranji Trophy.
- Versatility displayed with centuries both as an opener and at No.3.
3. Squad Dynamics: Fresh Faces and Depth
India’s squad for the 3rd Test reflects a strategic approach, looking beyond out-of-form Shreyas Iyer and veteran Cheteshwar Pujara. The selectors have shown faith in fresh faces like Rajat Patidar, who debuted in Visakhapatnam, and Sarfaraz Khan, expected to make his debut.
Squad Dynamics Overview:
- Strategic exclusion of out-of-form players.
- Inclusion of promising talents like Rajat Patidar.
- Debut likely for Sarfaraz Khan.
4. Squad for 3rd Test: Rohit Sharma Leads
Rohit Sharma will lead the squad in the absence of KL Rahul. The team features a mix of experienced players and young talents, showcasing the selectors’ confidence in nurturing new talent. Notable absentees and promotions are part of the squad dynamics.
Squad Composition Highlights:
- Rohit Sharma leads the squad.
- Inclusion of young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill.
- Promotions for Sarfaraz Khan and Ravindra Jadeja.
5. BCCI Confirmation: Rahul’s Fitness Update
The BCCI has officially confirmed Rahul’s fitness status, stating that he has reached 90% match fitness. While the setback in Rajkot is a precautionary measure, the focus is on having him completely match-fit for the upcoming fourth and fifth Tests. Rahul is expected to rejoin the squad in Rajkot shortly.
BCCI’s Official Statement:
- Rahul’s fitness at 90%, progressing well.
- Continued recovery at the National Cricket Academy.
- Targeting full fitness for the subsequent Tests.
