Asia Cup 2023: Former Batting Coach Says KL Rahul Should Only Be Considered As Wicketkeeper-Batter For India

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes KL Rahul should only be cosidered for selection in the playing 11 as a wicketkeeper-batter and not as a pure batter with the Indian team looking for better balance.

Rahul, who is making his return from injury, has been named in the 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2023, which is scheduled to start from August 30. Rahul is one of two wicketkeeping options along with Ishan Kishan for India at the continental show-piece event.

The selectors have also hinted Rahul will be the first choice stumper if fit despite Kishan's inclusion in the side. Sanju Samson will be a travelling reserve and will provide back up to Rahul, who underwent surgery earlier this year for an hamstring injury he picked up during IPL 2023.

In an exclusive conversation with Star Sports, former Indian cricketer Bangar weighed in on the pivotal role of Rahul in Team India's preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023.

With an astute assessment of the team's dynamics, Bangar delved into the critical consideration of Rahul's involvement as a wicketkeeper-batsman and how this strategic decision aligns with India's quest for balance and performance.

"I think keeper batter because no one bowls in the top 5 of team India, so it means if you want 6 bowling options you should have a player in your top 5 who can bowl or he should be a wicket-keeper batsman," Bangar told Star Sports

"So, I feel if KL Rahul plays the role of a wicket-keeper batsman, I believe then only he should be considered in the playing XI because in that way the team's balance will be maintained."

Bangar also felt wicketkeeper's role is very crucial, backing Kishan, who he feels has done nothing wrong whenever he got the chance, to be the first choice especially when Rahul is just returning from injury.

"If Kl Rahul is not fit as a batsman then Ishan Kishan has done nothing wrong because he is a better wicket-keeper and also a regular wicket-keeper," Bangar added, saying fitness is key for a wicketkeeper in the 50-over format.

"So, in the 50 over format game wherever India is going to play you will obviously want a fit and number one wicket keeper to play in the starting XI rather than considering a player who is half fit or who feels that he can be injured again."

India will open their Asia Cup 2023 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, where they will also face Nepal in their final first round match on September 4.

Team India will hope to get a better clarity on the number four position and the wicketkeeping spot at the Asia Cup or if not at least in the series against Australia before the ICC World Cup 2023 in October-November.