Senior Indian batsman K L Rahul is unlikely to participate in the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala due to persistent soreness in his right quadriceps.
Rahul's absence has been felt since the series opener in Hyderabad back in January. Despite being declared 90 percent fit before the third Test in Rajkot earlier this month, the right-handed batsman continues to experience discomfort.
Seeking expert advice, Rahul has traveled to London to assess his injury. With the Test series already secured by India, the team management is reluctant to risk his participation in the upcoming match scheduled to commence on March 7.
Given the looming Indian Premier League (IPL) where he is set to lead the Lucknow Super Giants, Rahul's full recovery is paramount. Additionally, his participation in the IPL could enhance his chances of securing a spot in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean.
An IPL source emphasized the importance of Rahul's recovery, highlighting the intense competition ahead in various formats of the game. With crucial Test series against New Zealand and Australia on the horizon later in the year, the focus is on ensuring Rahul's long-term fitness rather than rushing his return.
Rahul's injury woes are not unfamiliar, as he had previously been sidelined for almost four months last year due to the same quadriceps injury. Despite the setbacks, Rahul has made significant contributions upon his return, including a century in the recent Test series against South Africa.
With Rahul unavailable, batsman Rajat Patidar remains in the squad, but his place in the playing eleven is uncertain. Having struggled with form, scoring just 63 runs in six innings, Patidar's position may be in jeopardy, potentially paving the way for Devdutt Padikkal to make his debut in Dharamsala.
Meanwhile, India's premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, rested for the Ranchi Test, is set to lead the bowling attack in Dharamsala. With valuable World Test Championship points at stake, India aims to capitalize on Bumrah's prowess in the favorable conditions of the HPCA Stadium. Currently placed second in the standings, India will look to close the gap with table-toppers New Zealand as they pursue their championship aspirations.
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