KL Rahul Joins India A Squad for Crucial Unofficial Test Against England Lions

KL Rahul's Inclusion in India A Squad

KL Rahul has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to add him to the India A team for the upcoming second unofficial Test against the England Lions. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has granted his request, allowing the seasoned batsman to gain valuable red-ball experience ahead of India's five-match Test series in England.

Rahul's Availability After IPL

Following the Delhi Capitals' failure to reach the IPL playoffs, Rahul made himself available for selection. Initially, the BCCI had chosen Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan for the second India A match. However, the Gujarat Titans' advancement to the playoffs complicated their availability, making Rahul's inclusion timely. A source close to the BCCI stated,

“He will be flying on Monday and will be playing a second unofficial test with the India A side. As he is part of the senior men’s team, which will be playing five Test matches in the series, these matches will give him game time and match practice.”

India A's Preparatory Tour

India A, under the captaincy of Abhimanyu Easwaran, commenced their red-ball tour on Friday in Canterbury. This series is a crucial preparatory phase not just for Rahul but also for several other players expected to participate in the England Test series.

Strong Start for India A

On the first day of the initial unofficial Test at St Lawrence Ground, India A concluded the second session at 148 for 2 in 41 overs. After facing early challenges, the team stabilized thanks to a solid, unbeaten partnership between Karun Nair and Sarfaraz Khan.

Captain Easwaran was dismissed early for 8 runs, while Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 24 before being caught behind. Karun Nair anchored the innings with a composed 62 off 101 balls, featuring 11 boundaries, while Sarfaraz Khan remained not out on 42 off 74 balls. Together, they forged a 97-run partnership for the third wicket, effectively managing the pressure and maintaining a steady run rate.

The England Lions chose to bowl first, with bowlers Josh Hull and Edward Jack each taking one wicket but unable to capitalize on their early success.