Ranchi Test dealt a blow as KL Rahul faces unexpected setback and forced to sit out!

Overview

In a setback for the Indian cricket team, KL Rahul has been officially ruled out of the upcoming fourth Test against England in Ranchi. This announcement comes as a disappointment for fans, as Rahul has been struggling with a quadriceps injury, which previously kept him out of the games in Visakhapatnam and Rajkot.

The Journey So Far

Rahul, a formidable middle-order batsman, showcased his prowess in the series opener in Hyderabad, scoring 86 and 22. Unfortunately, an injury sustained during that game sidelined him for the subsequent Test matches. A BCCI release on February 12, prior to the Rajkot Test, had indicated that Rahul had reached 90% match fitness and was progressing well at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

However, the latest update from the board reveals that Rahul’s availability for the final Test in Dharamsala remains uncertain and is contingent on his fitness. Meanwhile, promising Karnataka batsman Devdutt Padikkal, who earned a maiden Test squad call-up based on his outstanding first-class performance, retains his place in the squad.

Battling Fitness Woes

The 31-year-old Rahul has faced persistent fitness challenges over the past 10 months. A thigh surgery stemming from an injury during IPL 2023 resulted in a significant absence from the cricketing arena. Despite this setback, Rahul made a strong comeback during the Asia Cup, displaying excellent form in both Test and ODI formats, until this recent injury setback.

Team Dynamics

In addition to Rahul’s absence, the Indian team will also miss the services of pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah in the Ranchi Test. The team management has granted Bumrah rest, considering his workload management with the upcoming IPL campaign and the T20 World Cup in West Indies & the USA. Bumrah, the leading wicket-taker in the series with 17 wickets at an impressive average of 13.64, has bowled a substantial 80.5 overs in the first three Tests.

Squad Adjustments

With Bumrah rested, Mukesh Kumar, who was released from the squad for the third Test, will make a return after delivering a stellar performance in the Ranji Trophy. Kumar’s remarkable match haul of 10 for 50 for Bengal against Bihar showcases his potential impact. Additionally, uncapped Akash Deep, hailing from the same state as Kumar, will serve as the third seamer in the squad.