With just a month left for the Asia Cup, there are concerns about the participation of senior batter KL Rahul and the availability of Shreyas Iyer for the World Cup 2023.
Rahul is expected to take longer to recover from his hamstring injury as he recently underwent thigh surgery. Similarly, Iyer had surgery on his lower back to address a stress fracture.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not provided a specific return date for both players.
“It is unlikely that both Rahul and Shreyas would be match fit for 50-over cricket, especially in humid conditions in Sri Lanka. However, the BCCI medical team believes Rahul can regain his fitness before the three-match series against Australia prior to the World Cup,” a BCCI source stated.
“As for Iyer, he has started skills training but it remains uncertain whether he will be 100% fit for the World Cup. T20 cricket offers an easier path for a comeback compared to 50-over cricket. We are cautiously optimistic,” the source added.
Although Rahul has already started his keeping drills, it may not be beneficial to have him play the entire 50 overs considering his hamstring injury.
Whether it’s Rahul or Iyer, it is crucial for India to have at least one of them back in the team as they need a dependable batsman for the number 5 position.
We are also eagerly awaiting the return of Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah to the squad.
With agency inputs.