Rahul Needs Surgery, To Miss Rest Of IPL & World Test Final; Who Will Replace Him?

Mumbai: KL Rahul will not only miss the remainder of IPL 2023 but also Team India’s World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia.

The Lucknow Super Giants skipper took to social media on Friday to announce that he will undergo surgery on his right thigh. Rahul, who has had his fair share of injuries, hurt himself while fielding during the match against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Lucknow on May 1.

In a long and emotional note that he posted on Instagram, Rahul said it was a tough call, but the right one.

“After careful consideration and consultation with the medical team, it’s been concluded that I’ll be undergoing a surgery on my thigh shortly. My focus will be on my rehabilitation and recovery in the coming weeks. It’s a tough call to make, but I know it’s the right one to ensure a full recovery,” Rahul wrote.

“As the team captain, it pains me deeply not to be able to be there during this crucial period. But, I’m confident that the boys will rise to the occasion and give their best performance as always. I’ll be cheering for them from the sidelines with all of you, watching every game. @lucknowsupergiants. Absolutely gutted that I won’t be at the Oval next month with Team India. I’ll do everything I can to get back in blue and help my country. That has always been my focus and priority. @indiancricketteam,” he added.

The WTC final will be played at London’s Oval from June 7 to 11.

Rahul’s absence means India are left with just one wicketkeeper in the squad announced for the WTC final, in the form of KS Bharat.

Though Suryakumar Yadav is among the reserve players, Rahul’s replacement should ideally be a back-up wicketkeeper.

Sanju Samson, who has played 11 ODIs and 17 T20 Internationals for the men in blue, may be in the mix. The Rajasthan Royals captain is having a decent IPL with the big gloves and bat as well.

Uncapped Vidarbha player Jitesh Sharma may also be considered, having also impressed for Punjab Kings in the ongoing IPL.

In case the selectors want to go for experience, veteran Wriddhiman Saha could be their choice. Saha hasn’t played for Team India since the Mumbai Test match against New Zealand in December 2021.