Indian cricket team's head coach, Rahul Dravid, has reportedly confirmed that seasoned cricketer KL Rahul won't be taking up the wicket-keeping responsibilities in IND vs ENG Test series, starting from January 25 onwards in Hyderabad. Instead, Rohit Sharma-led squad has two alternative options for the wicket-keeper role -- KS Bharat and Dhruv Jurel.
Rahul made his debut as wicketkeeper in the longest format during India's Test series against South Africa. Back then, it was reported that Rahul was assigned the wicket-keeping duties during the South Africa tour due to the inherent bounce in the pitches.
Why KL Rahul has been removed as wicket-keeper for IND vs ENG Tests
KL Rahul's ability as a batsman, particularly on the turning tracks of India, is recognized as a significant asset. The Indian team management appears to be exercising caution by not assigning him the wicket-keeping duties in the upcoming IND vs ENG Test Series. The decision takes into account the duration of IND vs ENG five-match Test Series and the challenges posed by keeping on India's turning pitches, especially against spin bowling.
KL Rahul will not be playing as a wicketkeeper in IND vs ENG Test Series, says Rahul Dravid
“Rahul will not be playing as a wicketkeeper in this series, and we are clear about that in the selection itself. We have picked two other wicketkeepers, and obviously, Rahul did a fantastic job for us in South Africa and really played a big part in helping us draw the series. But considering five Test matches and playing in these conditions, the selection will be between the two other keepers we have,” Dravid told India Today ahead of IND vs ENG 1st Test at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad.
India's Updated India squad for IND vs ENG first two Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan.