R. Ashwin believes that KL Rahul has skillfully assumed the number 5 position, which had remained unoccupied following the retirement of Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni.
Ravichandran Ashwin, the experienced spinner, believes that KL Rahul has solidified his position at number 5 in the Indian cricket team. After a prolonged injury break, the wicketkeeper-batsman is poised to return for the Asia Cup.
Although Rahul faced challenges in T20Is and Tests last year, he excelled in the 50-over format. The team’s middle-order concerns have been alleviated by Rahul’s successful move to number 5. As per Ashwin’s assessment, with 742 runs in 18 ODIs at this spot, including 7 half-centuries and one century, Rahul has firmly entrenched himself in the role, filling the void left by the retirements of Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni.
Aswin also added that Rahul had ascended to the primary wicketkeeper role following Rishabh Pant’s unfortunate car accident last year, which compelled him to take a mandatory break from cricket.
Ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired, India were desperately looking for a replacement. Rahul has filled that slot with expertise. He is a definite lock at No.5 and is also our wicketkeeper-batsman. Before Pant’s injury, Rahul was the backup and now Ishan Kishan has grasped that opportunity admirably,” Ashwin shared on his YouTube channel.
Meanwhile, Rahul’s participation in the early stages of the 2023 Asia Cup remains uncertain due to a minor injury, as disclosed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar during the squad announcement for the multi-nation tournament. Ashwin remains hopeful for Rahul’s swift recovery ahead of India’s inaugural Asia Cup match.
India’s World Cup journey is set to kick off on September 2 against traditional rivals Pakistan, with the clash scheduled at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.
Last Updated on August 25, 2023
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