IND vs ENG: KL Rahul not to play Rajkot Test, BCCI calls in fellow Karnataka batter as replacement

In yet another blow to the Indian Cricket Team, senior batter KL Rahul has been ruled out of the third Test against England due to a quadriceps strain that had previously sidelined him for the second match in Visakhapatnam.

The BCCI selection committee on Monday (February 12) announced that fellow Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal will fill in Rahul's spot in the squad. Paddikal - the stylish left-handed batter has worked hard through the ranks in the domestic circuit, renowned for his excellent performances in the ongoing first-class season.

KL Rahul hasn't arrived in Rajkot: Reports

According to a senior BCCI source speaking on the condition of anonymity to PTI, KL Rahul has not yet reported in Rajkot. Meanwhile, local player Ravindra Jadeja has joined the team. The decision regarding Rahul's fitness remained contingent upon the assessment by the BCCI medical team, which currently does not deem him fit for match action.

Earlier, both Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja were included in the squad, subject to clearance from the BCCI's medical panel. In his recent Ranji Trophy outing, the 23-year-old Padikkal impressed with a score of 151, witnessed by chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar. His form this season has been exceptional, highlighted by centuries against Punjab and Goa, along with notable contributions for India A against England Lions.

Concerning Rahul, questions have arisen about the transparency of injury disclosures, especially among senior players. The decision to include Rahul in the provisional squad despite the severity of his injury, coupled with his social media activity showcasing batting practice, has raised eyebrows within the BCCI. Similar concerns surround another senior player, who withdrew from selection citing undisclosed injuries.

Sarfaraz Khan to make his India debut in Rajkot?

The situation with Ishan Kishan's absence from Ranji Trophy matches adds further intrigue. With Rahul out of contention for the third and possibly fourth Test, the opportunity arises for Sarfaraz Khan in the middle order, especially since Shreyas Iyer has been dropped. However, the return of Ravindra Jadeja may pose selection dilemmas.

Axar Patel's commendable batting performances and Kuldeep Yadav's impressive bowling display in Visakhapatnam present additional considerations for team selection. Regarding the wicketkeeper position, KS Bharath faces competition from Dhruv Jurel, although Bharath may still receive another chance in Rajkot.