Big Blow: KL Rahul Suspended for Fifth Test; Abroad for Treatment, Played Only One Match vs England Series

KL Rahul could potentially miss the fifth Test against England. He sustained an injury during the first Test in Hyderabad and was unavailable for the remaining three matches of the series. Now, according to cricket updates, Rahul has traveled to England for further assessment and management. This puts his participation in the scheduled fifth Test, commencing from March 7, under suspense.

Earlier, fast bowler Mohammed Shami also underwent surgery for his arm in London. While his surgery was successful, he might need 6 to 8 months to return to the field.

KL Rahul’s Injury During the First Test

KL Rahul sustained an injury during the first Test match against England in Hyderabad. Consequently, he couldn’t participate in the remaining three matches of the series. During the Hyderabad Test, he experienced discomfort in his quadriceps, prompting him to undergo surgery later that year. It is evident that he continues to face several challenges.

However, during this time, the team management did not risk his recovery by assigning him any significant roles. After Rishabh Pant’s return to the squad, Rahul even shouldered the responsibility of wicketkeeping during overseas Tests.

KL Rahul Rested for the Three Tests Against England

KL Rahul has not featured in the three Test matches against England as he was given rest by the BCCI to recover from his injury. While he was initially expected to return for the third Test, he remained sidelined until the fourth Test due to ongoing rehabilitation under the supervision of expert doctors appointed by the BCCI.

According to reports, his recovery process has been ongoing for nearly a fortnight. With this status quo, there seems to be little possibility of his return for the fifth Test scheduled to begin in Dharamshala on March 7th.

KL Rahul’s Injury During IPL

KL Rahul suffered an injury to his thigh during the IPL last year while fielding at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium. In an attempt to stop a shot from Faf du Plessis during the second over of the RCB innings, Rahul felt discomfort in his leg and had to leave the field. 

Subsequently, he attempted to bat while nursing the injury, but faced difficulties in scoring runs. In June, he underwent successful surgery on his thigh in Germany to address the issue.

India’s Grip on the Series

The fifth and final Test of the series will be held in Dharamshala from March 7th onwards. India asserted dominance over the series by clinching victory in the fourth Test held in Ranchi. With this win, India has secured a commendable 3-1 lead in the five-match Test series against the opposition.

Bumrah Could Return for Dharamshala Test

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah may make a comeback for the upcoming Test match in Dharamshala. He was rested from the fourth Test to provide him with rest after a strenuous workload. Several players have been given rest from the final Test due to workload management. 

It is anticipated that Virat Kohli could also return for the fifth Test match. Kohli missed the first four Tests against England due to the birth of his second child.