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As the Asia Cup 2023 heats up, every cricket enthusiast's eyes are set on the India vs Pakistan Super Four clash at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. With KL Rahul returning to the fold, many debates have arisen as to who will he replace in the Playing XI.
In a recent conversation with Star Sports, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan expressed his preference for KL Rahul over Ishan Kishan for the prestigious IND vs PAK fixture because the wicketkeeper-batter needs matches under his belt to get in form for the ODI World Cup.
"We and the fans are making it complicated. I feel the management is extremely clear about who they want to play. If you ask me, I will go towards KL Rahul but the team management can think differently. Everyone goes to practice. If I am Ishan Kishan, I won't want to miss any session because I will want to maintain my form," said Pathan.
KL Rahul has recovered from a thigh injury he incurred during IPL 2023, but missed the previous two matches of the tournament after a new injury while undergoing rehab. If he makes it to the Playing XI, he has to use this chance to get back into form. This becomes especially crucial when one remembers the upcoming ODI World Cup set for October and November.
"KL Rahul needs to do it (play more matches). No matter how much he practices or goes on the ground, it is less because the World Cup is also around the corner and you want as much practice as possible, play as many deliveries, and prepare fully. The decision is going to be interesting for sure. I will go with Rahul," Pathan added.
Ishan Kishan's grit and form in the Asia Cup 2023
While Rahul's participation in the Asia Cup 2023 was hindered by his injury, Ishan Kishan rose to the occasion by scoring a commendable half-century against Pakistan earlier. "Ishan Kishan, it's a straight replacement. You won't want to play him in place of Shreyas Iyer. Yes, Shreyas Iyer is coming after injury but he is coming after scoring a lot of runs before that. KL Rahul also scored a lot of runs before injury," said Pathan.
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