Posted by Rajkot, India: India‘s middle-order batting woes deepened ahead of the crucial third Test against England in Rajkot as KL Rahul was ruled out due to a lingering knee injury. Young Karnataka opening batsman Devdutt Padikkal has been drafted into the squad as his replacement, marking his maiden Test call-up.
Rahul, already missing the second Test in Visakhapatnam with a quadriceps strain, was included in the squad for the remaining three matches conditionally. However, he fell short of achieving complete fitness, prompting the BCCI to act cautiously and prioritize his long-term recovery.
The 23-year-old Padikkal has been in red-hot form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, amassing 556 runs at an impressive average of 92.66. He boasts three centuries, including a recent 151 against Tamil Nadu, showcasing his ability to score big runs consistently.
Padikkal’s inclusion adds another young face to a squad already featuring Test debutants Rajat Patidar and, potentially, Sarfaraz Khan. With Virat Kohli also remaining unavailable due to personal reasons, India’s batting order lacks experience, making Padikkal’s call-up even more significant.
While Ravindra Jadeja is included in the squad, his participation is subject to fitness clearance after sustaining a hamstring injury in the first Test. His absence could open the door for another debut, likely a spinner given India’s preference for three-pronged spin attacks.
The series sits delicately poised at 1-1 after England’s emphatic victory in Chennai countered India’s dominant win in Hyderabad. With two crucial matches remaining, both teams will be looking to their young guns to step up and deliver in Rajkot.
Key Points:
- KL Rahul ruled out of third Test against England with a lingering knee injury.
- Devdutt Padikkal receives maiden Test call-up as replacement.
- Padikkal in top form with 556 runs at 92.66 in Ranji Trophy.
- India’s batting lacks experience with Kohli and Rahul out.
- Ravindra Jadeja’s fitness a concern, potentially opening door for another debut.
- Series tied 1-1, Rajkot Test crucial for both teams.
Read more information here: Cricinfo & Cricbuzz
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