BCCI Takes a U-Turn on KL Rahul's Request!

KL Rahul, who had recently shown decent form in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, reportedly requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for rest during the upcoming home series against England. Initially, reports suggested that the BCCI had agreed to his request, granting him rest for both the ODI and T20 series. However, recent developments indicate that the BCCI has reconsidered its decision.

According to emerging reports, while the BCCI has allowed KL Rahul to take a break during the T20 series, it has now instructed him to remain available for the three-match ODI series scheduled for February 6, 9, and 12. This decision appears to have been made in view of the significance of the series ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

A BCCI senior official reportedly told The Times of India, “KL Rahul was initially considered for rest during the entire series against England. However, with the ICC Champions Trophy approaching, it was deemed important for him to gain some practice. Therefore, he has been asked to participate in the ODI series.”

The official further added that the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, wants Rahul to be available for the ODIs, given his critical role as a middle-order batsman.

KL Rahul had a mixed performance during India’s recent tour of Australia, where the Indian batting lineup struggled. Despite the team’s overall failure, Rahul managed to contribute sporadically. In the ten innings he played during the series, Rahul scored 276 runs at an average of 30.66, making him the third-highest run-scorer for India in the series.