Xtra Time Web Desk: In what comes as a huge setback for the Indian team, KL Rahul has been ruled out of the upcoming World Test Championship Final against Australia starting from June 7. Sharing a post on Instagram, Rahul confirmed that he will miss the WTC Final as he will have to undergo a surgery on his thigh.
Here is the Instagram post of KL Rahul:
With KL Rahul missing out, Jharkhand wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan looks to be the frontrunner to replace KL Rahul in the Indian squad for the upcoming World Test Championship Final, if the Karnataka batter is ruled out due to an injury. Rahul was expected to keep wicket and bat in the middle order against Australia in the final to be played at the Oval starting from June 7. According to reports, the Lucknow Super Giants captain is already ruled out from ongoing IPL 2023 and doubtful for WTC Final 2023. BCCI is yet to make an official announcement.
Rahul injured himself while trying to chase a ball from reaching the boundary and in the process pulled himself. He was seen holding his hammy and was in pain. If there is a tear then he is expected for a lengthy break.
IPL 2023: KL Rahul ruled out of the remainder of league, doubtful for WTC Final
Rahul’s injury will force the Indian team management to re-think its strategy. Although KS Bharat is in the 15-member squad, but there is no guarantee he will find a place in the playing XI. Ishan Kishan, who was in the test squad for the series against Australia may be recalled. The wicket-keeper batter from Jharkhand has already played 41 games for India in white ball format but us yet to play test match. The advantage in getting Ishan in the playing XI is he is left-handed, which will make the opposition bowlers to change their strategies.
Bharat, who made his test debut in the recent home series against Australia hasn’t looked convincing with the bat and his glovework needs a lot to be desired.