New Delhi: Senior Indian batsman KL Rahul is unlikely to participate in the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala as he continues to experience soreness in his right quadriceps. It is reported that Rahul has been sidelined since the series-opener in Hyderabad in January, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stating that he was 90 percent fit before the third Test in Rajkot earlier this month.
Officials from the Indian Premier League told the media that it was more to get an expert opinion, and he travelled to London for this purpose. It is to ensure that he recovers fully, as he is a long-term player, which the team needs. He experiences a bit of pain while batting.
With Bharat having already secured the series victory, the team management is choosing option to avoid risking Rahul’s participation in the Dharamsala Test scheduled to commence on March 7.
Speculation suggests that Devdutt Padikkal may replace Rahul in the Dharamsala Test. Meanwhile, Rajat Patidar remains with the squad, although his place in the playing eleven remains uncertain due to his modest performances. He managed to score only 63 runs in the last six innings.
Pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who rested for the Ranchi Test, is expected to lead the bowling attack in Dharamsala. With every Test match offering vital World Test Championship points, Bumrah’s return could be pivotal, as Bharat currently ranks second in the standings behind New Zealand.
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