Asia Cup 2023: KL Rahul practices wicketkeeping skills ahead of India-Pakistan Super 4s Showdown
New Delhi: KL Rahul, renowned for his batting prowess, recently drew attention to his wicketkeeping skills in a practice session leading up to the high-stakes Super 4s clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023.
Despite being a formidable batsman, Rahul’s ability to don the gloves has been a subject of debate. However, his dedicated training at the Premadasa Stadium may bolster his chances of securing a spot in India’s playing 11 for the forthcoming Super 4 match against Pakistan, scheduled for Sunday. Rahul’s last appearance in a One Day International (ODI) for India was in March earlier this year, in a game against Australia in Chennai.
During the training session at the Premadasa Stadium, Rahul was put through various match scenarios, as reported by the news agency PTI. The practice began with Rahul standing up to the stumps while two support staff members simulated the roles of batter and bowler, providing him with practical experience in keeping to spinners. He also successfully demonstrated his ability to collect balls outside the off-stump while crouching, showing no signs of discomfort. This positive display suggests his recovery from a minor niggle, separate from the right thigh injury that necessitated surgery and rehabilitation.
Rahul then shifted his focus to collecting balls down the leg-side, passing this test with flying colors as the support staff directed throws in that direction. Subsequently, an assessment was conducted to evaluate his aptitude for stumpings. Later in the session, Kuldeep Yadav batted to assess Rahul’s readiness to keep against a left-handed batter. While these tests indicated his preparedness, the team management will carefully consider whether to include Rahul in the final playing 11.
In Rahul’s absence, Ishan Kishan has capably filled the role of wicket-keeper, impressing with his performance by scoring four half-centuries in as many matches – three against the West Indies and one against Pakistan. Kishan has also displayed adaptability, batting at No. 5 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup league match and contributing a composed 81-ball 82. Nevertheless, Rahul’s return could prompt strategic adjustments.
Historically, recuperated players have often made a swift return to the playing 11, with Shreyas Iyer being the latest example. After a six-month hiatus, Iyer made a successful comeback to the India side during the match against Pakistan at Pallekele, occupying his preferred No. 4 position.
Additionally, Sanju Samson, who served as the traveling reserve, has returned to India following Rahul’s rejoining of the squad. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah, who had temporarily stepped away from the Asia Cup league match against Nepal to be with his wife for the birth of their first child, has rejoined the squad and is actively participating in training sessions.
