Indian batsman KL Rahul has been ruled out of the entire Test series against New Zealand, as confirmed by the BCCI on Tuesday (November 23). Suryakumar Yadav, who was a part of India’s Test squad that traveled to England, has been added to the squad.
“Team India batsman Mr. KL Rahul has sustained a muscle strain on his left thigh. He will now undergo rehabilitation at NCA in preparation for the series against South Africa scheduled next month. The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Mr. Suryakumar Yadav as KL Rahul’s replacement.” BCCI said in an official release
With KL Rahul missing out, Gill is likely to open in the first test. Shubhman was expected to bat in the middle order but now in the absence of Rahul, he will take his usual place at the top of the batting lineup. Also, one between Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav will make their debut Thursday to fill in the middle-order spot.
India will play a two-Test series against New Zealand, which will kick off on Thursday at Kanpur. Ajinkya Rahane will be leading the home team in the opening Test match. While Virat Kohli will return to lead the side in the 2nd test. Mumbai will host the 2nd Test match from December 3 to 7. The test series against the Kiwis is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 cycle. This series will be the Blackcaps’ first of the 2021-23 cycle, while India started off on a high note leading by 2-1 against England.