India may have taken an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-Test series against England but the fitness status of KL Rahul remains a cause of concern ahead of the final match.
While the fourth Test in Ranchi ended on February 26, the dead-rubber fifth Test is slated to get underway on March 7 in Dharamsala.
The extended gap, however, may not be enough for India to get back Rahul's services. The senior batter, who has missed the last three Tests due to a quadriceps injury, is still uncertain for the series finale.
According to a Cricbuzz report, Rahul, who was declared 90 percent fit for the third Test in Rajkot, has not fully recovered, forcing the BCCI and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to reassess his case. He has been sent to London to consult a specialist.
Rahul is experiencing pain in his right quadriceps, for which he underwent surgery in 2023 and missed a lot of games. Considering the dual role he can perform for the side as a wicketkeeper-batter, the selectors and team management are not willing to take any chances.
Ahead of the penultimate Test, a BCCI release on Rahul had stated, "KL Rahul is ruled out of the 4th Test. His participation in the final Test match in Dharamsala is subject to fitness."
The Dharamsala Test against England will be India's last match before the IPL 2024, due to start on March 22.
As per the report, Rahul's participation in the cash-rich tournament for the Lucknow Super Giants is almost certain. His selection in the T20 World Cup 2024 squad will be considered based on his performance in the upcoming IPL season.
Meanwhile, India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is likely to return to the playing XI for the fifth Test match in Dharamsala. The right-arm quick was rested for the fourth Test to manage his workload.
However, a few batters and bowers who have been playing right through the series might be given a break with the series already being sealed.
Indian players have been asked to assemble in Chandigarh on March 2. Players from both teams are likely to travel from Chandigarh to Dharamsala via chartered flights on March 3.
(With Cricbuzz inputs)
