- Nasima Akter
KL Rahul Prepares for His Comeback Ahead Asia Cup 2023
KL Rahul, the talented and star-studded batter, is leaving no stone unturned in his preparation for a much-anticipated India comeback. Having fully recovered from a knee operation, Rahul is back in action and has resumed his training with utmost vigor as he prepares his comeback ahead Asia Cup 2023.
Currently nursing a thigh injury he incurred while representing the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, he underwent a successful operation in England during the month of May. Following the surgery, he promptly joined the ranks of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to commence his journey towards recovery. With a recent video surfacing on his Instagram account, Rahul's fans have been ecstatic to witness him in action, indicating that he is now fully fit and raring to make his triumphant return to the Indian cricket squad.
The viral video shared by Rahul on social media showcased his remarkable batting prowess as he effortlessly dispatched the cricket ball to all corners of the nets, delivering some awe-inspiring shots that left fans in awe. Not only was he seen excelling in his batting endeavors, but the clip also revealed glimpses of his rigorous training sessions, reaffirming his commitment to achieving peak performance on the field.
In addition to the video, Rahul also treated his followers to a snapshot that captured a moment of respite after an intense training session. The image exuded determination and focus, a testament to his unwavering dedication to honing his cricketing skills.
KL Rahul's contribution to the Indian cricket team during the World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 cycle was nothing short of impressive. In the course of 11 matches, he showcased his batting prowess, amassing a commendable 636 runs with an average of 30.28. Over 21 innings, he scored two magnificent centuries and two half-centuries, with his best individual score reaching an astounding 129. His performances were a crucial factor in India's success during the championship, solidifying his position as a key player in the national team.
The setback for Rahul occurred during a critical encounter between the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on May 1. While chasing a ball in the outfield during the second over, he sustained a thigh injury that caused him to immediately clutch his leg and limp off the field. This unfortunate incident temporarily halted his participation in the IPL and subsequently led to the need for a knee operation. However, his discipline and dedication to rehabilitation have brought him back to the game he loves.
Earlier this year, KL Rahul faced a double blow as he not only lost his Test captaincy during the Border-Gavaskar series but also missed out on the opportunity to participate in the highly anticipated World Test Championship Final due to his injury.
The talented right-handed batsman encountered a rough patch during the Test series against Australia, struggling to find his form with the bat. In the IPL 2023, Rahul's performance remained below par, as he could only manage to score 274 runs across nine innings.
During Rahul's absence, the responsibility of leading the team fell on the shoulders of Krunal Pandya, who stepped up admirably, guiding the team to the playoffs. Unfortunately, their journey in the tournament came to an end when they were eliminated by the Mumbai Indians.
While Rahul recuperates and regains his fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), he is not alone in his recovery journey. Jasprit Bumrah, the ace fast bowler, is also undergoing rehabilitation at the NCA, addressing a recurring back injury. Both Rahul and Bumrah are set to stage their comebacks in the Indian team, with the 2023 Asia Cup being the target for their return to international cricket.
