In a strategic move, KL Rahul is slated to take on the role of a specialist batter in the middle-order during the upcoming Test series against England. This decision signals a shift in responsibilities, with the wicket-keeping duties likely to be entrusted to either KS Bharat or newcomer Dhruv Jurel. The first India vs England Test is scheduled to commence in Hyderabad on January 25.
The decision to relieve KL Rahul of his dual responsibilities was reportedly discussed during chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s meetings with head coach Rahul Dravid in Cape Town. The matter was then deliberated upon in detail during the selection committee meeting on Friday evening, as per sources from The Telegraph.
While the selectors contemplated the inclusion of a wicketkeeper in the India playing XI, it posed a dilemma as it limits the option of having an extra batter, often beneficial for the team. However, concerns over Rahul’s keeping abilities, especially on spinning tracks against formidable bowlers like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, prompted the team management to exercise caution.
KL Rahul had taken up the wicketkeeping role in both Tests during the South Africa series. However, the challenges posed by Indian wickets, particularly in the spin department, present a different scenario. Any lapses in keeping could prove detrimental, and the selectors are keen on avoiding unnecessary risks.
KL Rahul to focus on batting in India vs England Tests
Furthermore, this decision allows KL Rahul to concentrate solely on his batting, minimizing the risk of fitness issues. Having undergone back surgery in May last year, he missed nearly five months of cricket. In the recent series against South Africa, Rahul not only showcased his batting prowess with a century in Centurion but emerged as India’s second-highest run-scorer after Virat Kohli.
India is likely to opt for a five-batters strategy, potentially sidelining Shreyas Iyer. However, the flexibility of reverting to KL Rahul as the designated wicket-keeper after the initial India vs England Tests remains an option if the team management deems it necessary.
Choosing between KS Bharat, an experienced choice who featured in all Test matches in the last Border Gavaskar Trophy, and the promising Dhruv Jurel, known for his batting and keeping skills, presents an intriguing dilemma for the selectors. Jurel, a 22-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, has impressed in his 15 first-class games, boasting an average of 46.47.
As India sticks to turning wickets, the India playing XI may feature three spinners and two pacers unless an extra batter is included, leading to only one fast bowler in the lineup.
The India vs England Test series also puts the spotlight on Shubman Gill’s form, with a run of poor scores. If the trend persists, Iyer’s record against spin could secure him a spot in the series, potentially challenging Gill’s position.
