BCCI uncertain on KL Rahul’s fitness as batter travels to United Kingdom for injury assessment

KL Rahul. (Photo Source: BCCI)

In a predicament, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faces uncertainty over KL Rahul’s fitness ahead of the fifth Test against England in Dharamshala, starting March 7. Rahul has been sidelined since the initial Hyderabad Test due to injury. Seeking clarity, Rahul journeyed to the United Kingdom for assessment, leaving team management awaiting his report to finalize selections.

With limited options, India eye Rajat Patidar, despite his recent struggles, as a potential middle-order inclusion. The situation amplifies India’s selection conundrum as they strive to bolster their lineup for the crucial final encounter against England, navigating through the uncertainties of player fitness. With the series already in India’s bag ahead of the final Test, the team aims to capitalize on the home advantage in the 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 treated him in England. Eventually, the doctor asked him to travel to England so that he could personally check what’s wrong with Rahul,” a BCCI source revealed as quoted by Times of India.

Also Read: ‘It’s either fit or unfit’ – Batting coach Vikram Rathour on KL Rahul’s fitness concerns

Rahul’s injury woes continue to plague the team 

The team management finds itself puzzled as scans reveal no specific issue with Rahul’s quadriceps, despite his uncertainty stemming from last year’s IPL injury and subsequent surgery. With a significant gap between the fourth and fifth Tests, management aims to resolve the matter by March 2, seeking clarity on Rahul’s fitness status. The situation highlights the challenges of managing player injuries amidst juxtaposed scheduling while accentuating the importance of timely resolution for the team’s sake.

“Ideally, the team management would want to see Patidar go back to play the Ranji semifinal and find some form. But that depends on Rahul’s availability. If Rahul is unavailable then he may be asked to stay back with the team. Even if Devdutt Padikkal makes his debut in the last Test, the team management needs an extra batter in the team as a concussion substitute,” the source added.