In the initial phase of the IPL, KL Rahul should refrain from taking on wicketkeeping duties, gradually reintegrating into the role as the tournament progresses.
Renowned batsman KL Rahul has received medical clearance to represent Lucknow Super Giants in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. Following a quadriceps strain sustained during the first Test match in Hyderabad against England, Rahul was absent from the subsequent four Test matches.
After seeking medical advice in London for his injury, Rahul returned to India and reported to the National Cricket Academy (NCA). According to a report from the news agency PTI, the LSG captain has been declared fit to participate in the IPL.
Additionally, a few days earlier, Rahul shared a brief video on Instagram showcasing his batting skills, engaging in basic keeping drills, and conducting outfield practice at the NCA.
However, the report also suggests that Rahul should refrain from wicketkeeping during the initial stages of the IPL, with the possibility of resuming the role after a few matches.
As per a BCCI source familiar with LSG’s developments, “The NCA has given him clearance, and he will join his teammates in Lucknow on Thursday (March 20) before they travel to Jaipur for the opening match against Rajasthan Royals on March 24. It is understood that he has been advised to avoid squatting initially, with the potential to take up wicketkeeping duties in the near future. For the first few games, he will strictly play as a specialist batsman.”
The franchise may not be overly concerned about Rahul’s wicketkeeping responsibilities, given the availability of former Proteas star Quinton de Kock and West Indies’ Nicholas Pooran as quality alternatives.
Nevertheless, Rahul will aim to resume wicketkeeping duties as soon as possible to bolster his chances of being included in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup. Having been out of the T20 setup since the 2022 T20 WC, the IPL serves as his primary opportunity for a return.
“Considering his past performances, Rahul may not be considered for a top-three position in the Indian T20 lineup. However, he could potentially fill the role of a wicketkeeper-batsman at positions 5 or 6 if he has a successful IPL campaign. Nonetheless, if he primarily features as a batsman, Rinku Singh emerges as a more viable option, alongside Rishabh Pant, who could stake a claim with impactful performances,” revealed a BCCI source familiar with the developments.