KL Rahul Ruled Out of IND vs ENG 5th Test in Dharamsala? Check Details
Published on: Feb 29, 2024 2:54 pm IST|Updated on: Feb 29, 2024 2:54 pm IST
In a blow to the Indian cricket team ahead of the fifth and final Test match against England, star batter KL Rahul has been ruled out of the encounter. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Rahul’s absence from the squad after he missed the second, third, and fourth Tests of the series due to a right quadriceps injury sustained during the first Test in Hyderabad.
KL Rahul Ruled Out of IND vs ENG 5th Test in Dharamsala
Rahul’s absence leaves a significant void in the Indian batting lineup, depriving the team of his experience and prowess at the crease. The 31-year-old’s ability to anchor innings and play crucial knocks under pressure has been instrumental in India’s success in recent matches.
The decision to rule Rahul out of the final Test underscores the seriousness of his injury, which has required ongoing monitoring by the BCCI’s medical team. Specialists in London have also been consulted to ensure the best possible management of his condition.
Despite efforts to facilitate his recovery, Rahul’s unavailability for the crucial encounter in Dharamsala comes as a setback for the Indian team. His absence creates an opportunity for other players in the squad to step up and fill the void left by the talented batsman.
In contrast, the return of speedster Jasprit Bumrah to the squad provides a boost to India’s bowling arsenal. Bumrah, who was rested ahead of the fourth Test in Ranchi to manage his workload, has been included in the squad for the final match. His presence adds depth and firepower to the Indian pace attack, enhancing the team’s chances of securing victory in the series decider.
Meanwhile, all-rounder Washington Sundar has been released from the squad to participate in the Ranji Trophy semi-final for Tamil Nadu against Mumbai. Sundar’s temporary absence allows him to represent his state team in a crucial domestic fixture, with the possibility of rejoining the Indian squad after the completion of the Ranji semi-final.
India’s updated squad for the fifth Test includes a mix of experienced campaigners and promising young talents, with Rohit Sharma leading the side as captain. With key players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel in the spin department, and the pace spearhead bolstered by the return of Bumrah, India remains well-equipped to put up a strong performance against England.
The fifth Test between India and England is scheduled to commence on March 07 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala. Despite Rahul’s absence, cricket fans can expect a fiercely contested match as both teams vie for supremacy in the series finale.
India squad for IND vs ENG 5th Test
Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.