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Xtra Time Web Desk: Star India batter KL Rahul was in focus during the team’s optional practice session a day ahead of the Super-4 clash against Pakistan at the R Premadasa stadium on Saturday. Rahul, who recently joined the Indian squad after a long injury lay-off was seen having an extended  session in the nets. He batted in all the three nets for almost 40 minutes.

Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav were among the players who skipped the optional practice session. Only 7 players turned up for the optional practice session on Saturday including the likes of KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Ravindra Jadeja.

If KL Rahul finds a place in the playing XI, it will mean in-form Ishan Kishan, who has delivered four consecutive half-centuries in the format have to sit-out. India's team management faces a dilemma whether to play KL or Ishan.

Accommodating both Rahul and Kishan in the playing XI seems very unlikely. Sunday's match against Pakistan may offer Rahul the opportunity to prove his fitness and form, setting the stage for a compelling Rahul vs. Kishan competition leading up to the World Cup.

Additionally, Jasprit Bumrah, after taking time off for the birth of his first child, rejoined the squad for the Super Four round, increasing the pace bowling options. Bumrah’s return could mean Mohammed Shami warming the benches.

The probable XI could feature Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul/Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj.

 [DS1]