KL Rahul, freshly back from injury, displayed exceptional form during his net practice with the Indian team on Thursday. He effortlessly struck the ball just like before his thigh injury. Returning from a prolonged injury hiatus can be a challenging endeavour.
Yet, rumours spread like wildfire that KL Rahul exuded confidence in his batting during his rehab sessions at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Despite a groin niggle, he looked poised for the full 50 overs. His prowess against pace was evident, and Vikram Rathour, the batting coach, occasionally had to caution him against undue risk-taking.
KL Rahul’s inclination to challenge bowlers, even resorting to aerial shots, could be perilous, especially against left-arm pacers where a top edge is a looming danger. However, he confidently executed a few lofted shots over mid-wicket.
The Indian cricket fraternity had been eagerly awaiting Rahul’s return, but now, as he rejoins the squad, he faces a precarious situation with no guaranteed spot in the starting lineup.
This wasn’t the scenario when India arrived in Sri Lanka just last week. Ishan Kishan, the other wicketkeeper in the squad, seized the opportunity to bat at No. 5 and performed brilliantly, scoring 82 runs against Pakistan in KL Rahul’s absence. Kishan’s impressive middle-order performance was an extension of his excellent form during the Caribbean tour, where he secured three half-centuries in as many matches.
KL Rahul is back
Under normal circumstances, KL Rahul would have been an automatic selection in the playing XI, given his experience and skills. However, the team lacks left-handed batsmen to counter leg-spinners who often trouble right-handers in the middle order.
While Ishan Kishan has only batted once at No. 5, KL Rahul’s proven track record is undeniable. Yet, given the current circumstances, India is willing to exercise patience and observe who can provide the much-needed balance to the team.
KL Rahul’s return to the Indian cricket team has brought a new dimension of competition, particularly in the middle order. His stellar form in practice sessions is encouraging, but the emergence of Ishan Kishan as a formidable middle-order option adds complexity to the selection dilemma. As India prepares for the upcoming challenges, the decision-makers will carefully weigh their options to ensure the team’s success.
