EDICRIC | Cricket News | Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Ruled Out of First Two Games
Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul Ruled Out of First Two Games
India’s leading batsman, KL Rahul, who had recently gone through a surgical procedure to mend a knee injury sustained during the 2023 IPL season, has encountered another setback just before the highly significant 2023 Asia Cup. Regrettably, Rahul will be absent for India’s initial two matches in the tournament, which means he won’t be participating in the clashes against traditional rivals Pakistan and underdogs Nepal during the group stage. The upcoming Asia Cup will adopt a one-day format.
During IPL 2023, KL Rahul suffered a thigh injury, leading to his surgery in England. Following his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, he rejoined the Indian squad for a training camp in Alur, Karnataka, which recently concluded. Although Rahul’s recovery progress has been positive, India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, has indicated that he won’t be available for the matches against Pakistan and Nepal.
Rahul Dravid’s Statement On KL Rahul
“He has had a really good week with us, really trained well, he is progressing well on the route we want to take but he will be unavailable for the Kandy leg of the trip,” India’s head coach said to reporters on Tuesday.
“The NCA will be looking after him for the next few days while we are traveling. We will reassess on the 4th and then take it from there. But the signs are looking good and he is progressing well,” he said.
India has been closely monitoring the physical condition of their middle-order pair, Rahul and Iyer. Shreyas Iyer had to undergo back surgery, resulting in a substantial absence from the game. According to Dravid, the team management is adopting a prudent strategy regarding Rahul’s recuperation. On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer has successfully met all the required criteria for his rehabilitation and currently, he needs match practice.
Rahul Dravid’s Statement On Shreyas Iyer
“Shreyas Iyer Looked pretty good during the preparatory camp. It’s all about giving him more game time, hopefully, it will come in the Asia Cup. In terms of fitness, he has done well, has batted well, ticked all the boxes,” India’s head coach said.
“Both Rahul and Shreyas are in the same boat. Slightly cautious approach with KL. We are hoping he will only miss the first two games and will be available for the latter part of the tour Asia Cup,” Dravid said.
Asia Cup 2023, IND vs PAK Sep 2
On September 2, in Pallekele, India started their campaign against Pakistan, followed by a match against Nepal on September 4. The absence of Rahul will reverberate strongly within the Indian team, he is a standout as one of their most reliable and versatile limited-overs batsmen. His track record includes amassing 3611 runs in 98 ODIs, showcasing an impressive average of 48.15. This is accompanied by 10 centuries and 19 half-centuries. Additionally, Rahul has also notched up 1642 runs in 54 T20Is at a commendable average of 40.54, embellished with two centuries and 13 half-centuries.
India holds aspirations for KL Rahul’s swift recovery, with the anticipation that he will rejoin the squad for the crucial phase of the Asia Cup. This juncture promises encounters against formidable adversaries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. It’s worth noting that India currently holds the title of defending champions in the Asia Cup, a distinction earned after their triumph in the 2018 edition hosted in the UAE under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma.
