Team India received a boost with the return of long-term absentee KL Rahul, who has been away with injury.
KL Rahul joined the Asia Cup squad in Colombo and had his first practice session on Thursday. Despite a long absence, he managed to find his form quickly, striking the ball cleanly, just like before his thigh injury.
During the session, Rahul appeared comfortable and was never beaten for pace, despite concerns of a groin problem he suffered during his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
He was aggressive, taking on the bowlers and even going for aerial shots aloof of the batting coach, reminders of the risks posed by left-arm pacers when playing across the line. Regardless, Rahul continued his confident play.
However, though India has eagerly been awaiting Rahul’s comeback, you may not see him feature as you watch Asia Cup 2023 .
In his absence, Ishan Kishan, the other wicketkeeper in the squad, had a remarkable opportunity to bat at No 5 and scored 82 against Pakistan, revitalizing India’s chances in the game and securing his position.
Kishan stepped up during the tour of the Caribbean, where he scored three fifties in as many matches, proving his capability in the middle order.
With the return of Rahul, the selectors face a tough decision. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, acknowledged the dilemma, stating that having two good options was a positive problem to have.
Under normal circumstances, Rahul would have easily returned to the XI. But due to the team’s needs and the desire for a left-hander in the middle order to counter leg-spinners, India is willing to wait and decide which player provides the necessary balance.
Although Rahul has experience at No. 5, Kishan’s current performance gives him an edge, and is likely to get the nod as you watch India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 .
India seems inclined to persist with Kishan for the time being, but the temptation to bring back Rahul is strong. In the past two years, Rahul has been irreplaceable as India’s best batsman in ODIs.
In his absence, the team felt the void in every match, as players like Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson failed to fill his shoes.
With the World Cup fast approaching, Rahul’s timely return makes him a valuable asset for big events.
It is likely that Rahul will be given an opportunity during the Asia Cup to bolster his confidence ahead of the World Cup. But whether he features in Sunday’s clash as you watch India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 we’ll have to wait and see.
Jane Davies
