NEW DELHI: India’s cricket team will be without the services of key wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul for their opening matches in the upcoming Asia Cup, including the highly anticipated showdown against arch-rivals Pakistan, as confirmed by coach Rahul Dravid on Tuesday.
The 50-over championship, is scheduled to commence tomorrow with Pakistan and Nepal clash.
Rahul’s absence stems from an injury that has sidelined him from competitive cricket since his unfortunate setback during the Indian Premier League held between April and May. Although his original injury was a thigh problem, the 31-year-old player is currently grappling with an unrelated injury niggle, leading to his unavailability for the early matches of the Asia Cup.
Coach Rahul Dravid provided insight into Rahul’s recovery progress, stating, “He’s progressing really well on the route that we want to take. But he will be unavailable for the first part (of the Asia Cup), for the Kandy leg of the trip.” The Indian team is likely to entrust wicketkeeping duties to Ishan Kishan during Rahul’s absence, as suggested by Indian media sources.
Asia Cup Clashes
The Asia Cup serves as a vital preparatory event for teams from the region ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup in India, set to begin in October. Co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the Asia Cup follows a hybrid model that was agreed upon after India’s decision to abstain from touring Pakistan due to longstanding political tensions.
The match between India and Pakistan, a fixture that is met with immense anticipation by cricket fans worldwide, is slated to take place at the Pallekele stadium in Kandy. Given the tournament’s format, there is a likelihood that the two teams could cross paths again during the Super Four stage, with a potential rematch in the final scheduled for September 17 in Colombo.
Rahul’s condition will continue to be assessed, with another evaluation planned for September 4, just ahead of the Asia Cup’s Super Four stage.
