KL Rahul, the wicketkeeper-batter caught a lot of attention during the Indian team’s practice session. This is ahead of their eagerly awaited Test series with South Africa. The first match is on Boxing Day, in Centurion.
The BCCI released a video. It featured not just Rahul, but also Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, and Shubman Gill. They were practicing slip catches. This could be a hint of what the slip cordon might look like.
Also, we saw other players giving their all in training. They were not only improving their catch but also learning to pick up and release the ball quickly during a run. Have a look at the video:
Preps in full swing for the Boxing Day Test ????#TeamIndia sharpen their fielding skills ahead of the first #SAvIND Test tomorrow in Centurion ???????? pic.twitter.com/SftEN2kDED
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 25, 2023
Rahul Dravid reveals KL Rahul will be India’s keeper in Boxing Day Test
Sunday, December 24, had India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, speaking to the media. He dropped a hint – KL Rahul might be the wicketkeeper in the Test series. With Ishan Kishan away on personal grounds, Dravid trusts Rahul to handle this role. Even though Rahul hasn’t yet been the wicketkeeper in India’s longest format.
On this, he stated:
“It is a different challenge and an exciting one for him (KL Rahul). With Ishan not being available this opportunity came up. We have a couple of keepers to choose from. Rahul is very confident and keen on giving it a go. We do understand that it’s not something he has probably done often. That’s certainly tough to keep wickets for 50 overs and bat as well. It takes a lot out of your body. He has prepared well for the past 5-6 months. There won’t be as much spin bowling here as it will be pace and that will ease him into his role.”
Rahul Dravid
Where KL Rahul will bat is captivating to see. Remember, he scored a Test hundred the last time India played in Centurion as an opener.