Dravid said Rahul has been progressing “really well”, but won’t be ready in time for the group-stage fixtures against Pakistan (September 2) and Nepal (September 4), both of which will be played in Pallekele.
When the squad for the Asia Cup was named, Rahul was only deemed conditionally fit. While he had fully recovered from the thigh injury he sustained during IPL 2023, for which he underwent surgery followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation at the NCA, Rahul was understood to have picked up a minor niggle that made him a doubtful starter for at least the first two Asia Cup games. This was confirmed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar at the press conference to announce the squad last week.
India have Ishan Kishan as a wicketkeeping option in the squad, while Sanju Samson has been named as a travelling reserve.
More to follow…
Source: ESPN Crickinfo