Xtra Time Web Desk: The Indian cricket team finds itself in a dire situation ahead of the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam starting from February 2. A string of injuries and key player withdrawals makes the Indian team look depleted. The absence of key members like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Shami has created a challenging scenario for the team as the hosts gear up to level the test series in Vizag.
The injury woes are particularly troubling, with Jadeja’s hamstring issue potentially sidelining him for a significant period. Reports suggest that the recovery time for such injuries typically ranges from four to eight weeks, making it doubtful if he’ll be fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi from February 23 to 27, and almost certain to miss the third Test in Rajkot. The BCCI’s recent release only confirms his absence for the second Test, leaving the timeline for his return uncertain.
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KL Rahul’s situation, though not as alarming, is still a cause for concern. Complaints of right quadriceps pain, stemming from a thigh surgery in 2022, have raised questions about his availability. The BCCI, cautious about one of their key batsmen, has him under observation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Fortunately, there is optimism that Rahul might recover in time for the third Test starting on February 15, thanks to the substantial gap between the second and third Tests.
The challenge is exacerbated by the team being one down in the series, putting pressure on the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid leadership duo. As they prepare to face Ben Stokes’ England team, the absence of these key players adds an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding series. The resilience and adaptability of the remaining squad will be crucial as they navigate through the challenges posed by the injuries and withdrawals, aiming to turn the tide in their favour.
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