Ahead of Team India's squad selection for the upcoming 2023 Asia Cup, there have been some positive developments pertaining to the rehabilitation process of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. According to a report in PTI, wicketkeeper-batter Rahul has displayed 'impressive fitness levels' and has begun wicket-keeping drills.
"(KL) Rahul showed impressive fitness levels over the match simulation programme (at the NCA) while batting and doing the wicketkeeping duties for an extended period," a source close to the development told PTI.
"He has started batting from earlier this week and has now added wicketkeeping as well," the source added.
When it comes to Iyer, there has been a marked improvement in the fitness levels of the right-handed middle-order batter. Yet, his return is expected to take a longer time when compared to Rahul.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to announce the senior men's national squad for the upcoming 2023 Asia Cup. It's been widely reported that the delay has been predominantly because the decision-makers are waiting on the National Cricket Academy (NCA) staff for a concrete answer on the aforementioned two cricketers' fitness.
India's squad for the Asia Cup is likely to be announced on August 21 with the players gathering for a preparatory camp on August 24. The continental competition is scheduled to begin on August 30 while the Men in Blue begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2 in Pallekele.
In the absence of Rahul and Iyer, India have struggled to figure out an ideal replacement for both batters. Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson have received plenty of chances but the duo's performance has been far from convincing.
Apart from consolidating the batting line-up, Rahul also brings with him the wicket-keeper's option that ultimately makes the Indian playing XI in ODIs more potent.
If reports are to be believed, there is a significant chance of Rahul being included in India's squad for the Asia Cup, but the same cannot be said about Iyer, who might take a longer time to return to action.
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