KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s prospects of regaining full fitness in time for the Asia Cup 2023 have dimmed, with sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hinting at their exclusion from the upcoming squad announcement.
The BCCI insiders have conveyed that both players’ recuperation isn’t at a level where they can be considered for the continental championship scheduled from August 30 to September 17. Despite the players’ optimistic updates on social media, experts caution against premature reentry into international cricket. However, their sights remain set on the ODI World Cup later this year, potentially marking their return during the anticipated three-ODI series against Australia in September.
Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s absence likely ensures continuity for the recent ODI series-partaking players against West Indies in the forthcoming six-team championship across Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Bowling changes will see the return of Siraj, Shami, and Bumrah, while Prasidh Krishna, recovering from injury, may narrowly miss the 15-member squad. Ishan Kishan solidifies his position as wicketkeeper for both Asia and World Cup, with Rahul as a potential contender.
As Ishan secures his spot, the team management faces a choice for the opening partnership upon Rohit Sharma’s return. Signals suggest Ishan and Rohit will lead the innings, moving Shubman Gill – who opened in the West Indies ODIs – to the middle order. The squad’s batting order will be finalized during the Bengaluru preparatory camp (August 24-29), ahead of India’s Asia Cup debut against Pakistan on September 2.
Breaking news reveals adjustments to the World Cup schedule, impacting six matches, including the high-profile India-Pakistan clash moved to October 14 in Ahmedabad. Similarly, Pakistan’s game against Sri Lanka may shift two days earlier to October 10 in Hyderabad. Changes are also anticipated for New Zealand vs. Bangladesh and England vs. Afghanistan games in Chennai and Delhi on October 11.
Last Updated on August 2, 2023
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