India middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer is likely to miss the remainder of IND vs ENG Test series owing to injury. With this latest blow, speculations are rife about who would replace him in the playing XI. Iyer’s injury comes days before the 3rd Test at Rajkot.
Will Iyer’s injury favour Rahul or Sarfaraz?
KL Rahul, who was out injured after the 1st Test, is expected to make a comeback in the Rajkot Test. With Iyer likely to miss the 3rd Test, it makes most sense for Rahul to occupy that position. The Karnataka batter played a decent knock in Hyderabad before he had to sit out due to injury.
Another contender for the spot could be Sarfaraz Khan. The prolific batter, who has a tremendous record in the domestic circuit, has been overlooked by the selectors so far. Despite being included in the squad for the 2nd Test, Rajat Patidar received the call-up ahead of Khan. This could lead one to question if Sarfaraz would finally be given a chance or if the team will continue to persist with Patidar.
It has been revealed that Shreyas Iyer complained of stiffness in his back and pain in his groin while playing forward defense, raising concerns about his participation in the crucial series.