Why is KL Rahul not playing IND vs ENG 2nd Test at Visakhapatnam starting on 2 February?

In a massive blow for the Indian cricket team, KL Rahul has been ruled out of the upcoming second Test match against England in Visakhapatnam. The news comes as a significant setback for India, adding to the challenges they face in the ongoing series.

Why is KL Rahul not playing IND vs ENG 2nd Test?

KL Rahul, who replaced Virat Kohli in the middle order due to Kohli’s withdrawal from the squad for personal reasons before the series began, will also miss the second Test. Rahul sustained a quadricep issue during England’s historic 28-run victory in Hyderabad.

Related Why is Ravindra Jadeja not playing IND vs ENG 2nd Test?

The setback compound India’s woes, as they were already without pace bowler Mohammed Shami and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant due to heel and recovery issues, respectively, since a road accident in December 2022.

In response to the mounting challenges, India has called up Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar to bolster the squad for the upcoming Test starting on Friday. Sarfaraz, a middle-order batter with an impressive first-class average, is yet to receive an international cap. Sundar, a spinning all-rounder, has played four Tests, including three against England in the previous tour.

The absence of key players raises concerns for India, while there are also fears of a potential injury blow for England, as Jack Leach was seen hobbling after the first Test. Leach sustained a blow to the knee, impacting his ability to bowl.

As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the second Test between India and England, the absence of Jadeja and Rahul will undoubtedly pose challenges for the home side, while England hopes to overcome potential injury setbacks of their own.