[WATCH] Ravi Shastri Engages In A Heated On-Air Discussion Regarding KL Rahul And Shreyas Iyer

Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, former selection committee chief Sandeep Patil, and MSK Prasad engaged in a substantial discussion regarding the fitness of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul.

Are KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer in good physical condition? And if they are, should they be included directly in India’s Asia Cup squad without participating in any competitive matches beforehand? These are the primary queries currently on the minds of Indian cricket enthusiasts.

The response is anticipated to be unveiled on Sunday when the senior men’s selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, reveals the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2023, commencing on August 30. Until then, speculation is all that remains. India surely desires to have both Iyer and Rahul not just within their team but also in their playing lineup. This choice is supported by valid reasons.

Sporting an average of 47 and boasting two centuries, Iyer has effectively addressed India’s challenges at the No.4 position in recent years. His capacity to take on spinners suits him perfectly for the vital role in subcontinent conditions. Regarding KL Rahul, his commendable performance as a wicketkeeper and smooth transition to the No.5 spot make him a valuable asset.

Their presence not only bolsters India’s batting lineup but also enhances the team’s equilibrium. Yet, wouldn’t it be a significant gamble to immediately integrate them into the playing XI for a tournament like the Asia Cup?

Both Rahul and Iyer have participated in a minimum of two practice matches at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to validate their fitness. Among the duo, Rahul seems to be in notably better condition according to the latest updates. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether the selectors, captain Rohit Sharma, and head coach Rahul Dravid consider Rahul and Iyer indispensable. If not, India has alternatives like Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan ready to step in and fill their positions in the lineup.

During a Star Sports special program dedicated to the Asia Cup selection, former India head coach Ravi Shastri, former India chief selector Sandeep Patil, and MSK Prasad engaged in a substantial on-air discussion.

Here’s a glimpse of the dialogue that unfolded among the trio of former India cricketers:

MSK Prasad: What if KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are deemed fit?

Ravi Shastri: They should participate in some matches, allow them to play a few games before the Asia Cup.

MSK Prasad: Agreed. Let’s assume they are declared fit after playing matches.

Ravi Shastri: The question remains, where will they get a chance to play? The Asia Cup is set to begin within a few weeks.

MSK Prasad: I observed KL Rahul’s performance at the NCA. He appears to be in good shape. It’s possible he might be included in the squad.

Sandeep Patil: Practicing in the nets and participating in an actual match are distinctly different experiences.

MSK Prasad: They have arranged two matches for KL Rahul already, Sandy bhai.

Sandeep Patil: But were those matches competitive? Scoring runs in friendly matches is comparatively easier.

Ravi Shastri: Injuries can be quite concerning. We’ve witnessed this with Bumrah, trying to hurry him back multiple times, and he’s been sidelined for 14 months.

Ultimately, the selected squad didn’t include either Iyer or Rahul. Instead, they opted for Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, and a promising debutant, Tilak Varma, who impressed everyone during his inaugural series in the West Indies, for India’s 15-member roster.

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