According to former Indian National Cricket Team player Mohammad Kaif, KL Rahul’s condition could worsen if he misses the first few games of the Asia Cup 2023, which would be bad news for Indian fans.
KL Rahul’s exclusion from the opening two games of the Asia Cup 2023 owing to a new ailment he has developed has dealt a serious blow to India, according to India head coach Rahul Dravid on Tuesday, August 29.
Ishan Kishan is most likely to be given the wicket-keeping gloves in KL Rahul’s absence. But since his best performances have frequently occurred when he bats first in an inning, the club management will need to make a crucial choice about his position.
There is no assurance that Rahul would become fit and available for the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2023, according to Mohammad Kaif, who was speaking on Star Sports. He clarified:
“(On KL Rahul’s absence) It indicates that his injury can worsen. There is no assurance that he will be fit after two games if he is currently injured. Given that Rahul does exceptionally well at No. 5 in ODIs, the news is bad for Indian supporters. His statistics are excellent.
“He has the ability to play huge shots, shift gears, and stabilize innings. No matter who you play, Ishan Kishan, you won’t get a substitute. Rahul not only keeps wicket but also adds the finishing touches.
Mohammad Kaif: Gill’s performance has dipped a little.
Mohammad Kaif emphasized Shubman Gill’s recent bad performance but expressed confidence in the opening batsman’s ability to succeed in the next Asia Cup. The dangerous Pakistani pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf would make it difficult for the Indian top three to bat if the ball moves, he added. He clarified:
“Gill’s performance has dipped a little. Although he struggled on the West Indies trip, I believe the Kandy pitch will be to his advantage. He enjoys motion and bounce. The top three will always face a challenge since the ball will shift.
“We play Pakistan in the opening game. Good bowlers include Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Shaheen Afridi. The conflict will be fierce. The planning is excellent.
On Saturday, September 2, in the third game of the event at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, the India National Cricket Team will begin their season against their bitter rivals, the Pakistan National Cricket Team.
