No Rest For KL Rahul! BCCI Forces Star Batter To Play ODI Series Vs England

KL Rahul to play VS ENG [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.Com]

KL Rahul who asked for a break from the white-ball series against England has now been forced to take part in the series as the Champions Trophy approaches fast. The star player urged BCCI not to include him in the squad for the England tour, but it seems his request has been rejected.

As per TOI, the BCCI has asked KL Rahul to play the ODI series as the batter will be an integral member of the Champions Trophy squad and the board wants him to be match fit ahead of their tournament opener on February 20.

The importance of KL Rahul in ODIs

However, his wish to not play the T20I series against the same team has been granted and KL Rahul will get some rest before the ODIs begin next month. The keeper-batter is an integral part of the ODI setup and the board wants the players to get the proper match-practice before the Champions Trophy.

"The selectors initially decided to rest Rahul, who plays in the middle order and is a wicketkeeper in the ODIs, from the entire white-ball series against England at home. However, they had a rethink and the BCCI has now asked him to play in the ODI series so that he gains some match practice ahead of the Champions Trophy in February," a source told TOI.

In the World Cup 2023, KL Rahul was an integral member and played quite a few knocks which helped India win the matches.

India Champions Trophy selection delayed

The squad was set to be announced on January 12, Sunday, however, that has been delayed and now the Champions Trophy team will be announced next week.

One reason could be that the selectors are still contemplating on certain decisions regarding the squad selection and hence there is a delay in the announcement. Also, the management is sweating hard on Jasprit Bumrah's fitness as the team selection is taking more time than usual.

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