KL Rahul likely to miss IND vs ENG Dharamshala Test: Team India’s star keeper batter KL Rahul’s participation in the upcoming IND vs ENG 5th Test in Dharamshala remains uncertain due to lingering fitness issues.  The 31-year-old’s struggle with fitness concerns has raised doubts about his availability for the IND vs ENG Dharamshala Test, scheduled to take place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala, starting March 7. 

As per a report from Cricbuzz, KL Rahul has yet to fully recover his fitness and is considering consulting a specialist in London for further advice. He was sidelined from the second Test due to a right quadriceps injury, and despite ongoing treatment, he continues to grapple with lingering issues affecting his condition. According to the report, Rahul has been facing persistent trouble with his quadriceps since undergoing surgery on it last year.

In KL Rahul’s absence, a seasoned batsman in the longest format, the Indian team management had to turn to younger players to fill the void. Fortunately, emerging talents like Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel displayed remarkable composure and skill, making significant contributions to the team’s victories in the third and fourth Tests, respectively. 

Following the conclusion of the fourth Test, Captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged the challenges faced by the team due to the absence of key players. However, he expressed his admiration for the manner in which the young players stepped up in absence of ‘big names’. 

India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, is anticipated to rejoin the Indian squad for the 5th Test against England. His absence in the 4th Test in Ranchi was attributed to a workload management strategy.

With uncertainty looming over KL Rahul’s availability, the out-of-form Rajat Patidar could potentially receive a lifeline. IND vs ENG 5th Test in Dharamshala begins on March 7. Reports suggest that he might be released to play in the Ranji Trophy semi-finals between Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha, commencing on March 2nd.