KL Rahul Unavailable for First Two Games of 2023 Asia Cup

     Rahul, who has been recovering from an injury, is progressing well according to Dravid but will not travel with the team to Sri Lanka for the group stage matches.

     Rahul, who sustained the injury during this year's IPL, managed to recover in time to be included in India's squad for the Asia Cup. However, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had previously hinted that the 31-year-old might miss at least the opening game of the tournament. Rahul participated in India's skills camp without any discomfort and resumed his wicketkeeping duties, but a cautious approach has been adopted.

     India's first match is against Pakistan on Saturday (September 2) in Pallekele, followed by a fixture against Nepal. Dravid stated that a decision on Rahul's participation in the Super Fours, if India qualifies, will be made on September 4. While Ishan Kishan serves as the backup wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson is present as a traveling reserve.

     Dravid mentioned that Rahul has had a productive week of training and is progressing well. The National Cricket Academy (NCA) will monitor his progress while the team is on their trip. A reassessment will be made on September 4, but the signs are positive for his recovery.

     Dravid dismissed concerns about Rahul being underprepared for the upcoming marquee event in October in India. He emphasized that it is just two missed games and both Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are in a similar situation. Rahul is performing well in batting and keeping, and a slightly cautious approach is being taken leading up to the World Cup.

     Over the next few days, Rahul will participate in match simulations to spend more time on the field. The hope is that he will only miss two games and be available for the latter part of the tour, including the series against Australia. Dravid expressed confidence in both Rahul and Iyer, highlighting their experience.