After talismanic all-rounder Hardik Pandya was forced out of the ICC tournament due to injury on Saturday, November 4, KL Rahul was chosen vice-captain for the duration of the current 2023 World Cup.
Pandya hurt his ankle bowling in the Men in Blue’s game against Bangladesh. At first, people said the seasoned player would be back later in the tournament.
But now, the International Cricket Council (ICC) says Pandya won’t play anymore due to his hurt ankle. Without him, KL Rahul will help skipper Rohit Sharma as the team’s second-in-command for the other games.
“The BCCI has appointed KL Rahul as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the remainder of the World Cup. He was informed about it on Saturday morning by chairman of selection committee, Ajit Agarkar, who is traveling with the team,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
BCCI Official
According to rumors, Jasprit Bumrah, India’s speed spearhead, was the other favorite for vice-captaincy. The national selectors, however, chose KL Rahul over the quick bowler.
Specifically, KL Rahul has created an impression with the bat and gloves during the 2023 World Cup. The right-handed hitter shined with the bat in India’s first match against Australia, scoring a remarkable undefeated 97-run knock to send the team home.
He has 237 runs in six innings, at an average of 79.00. During the competition, the 31-year-old has also impressed many with his wicketkeeping.
India’s World Cup domination: First team to qualify for semifinals
Sharma’s team has been perfect in the 2023 World Cup. They’ve beaten everyone. They’re the only team that hasn’t lost in seven games. They’re on a roll.
After defeating Sri Lanka by a whopping 302 runs, India bagged a spot in the semi-finals. Their net run rate is 2.102, and they’re firmly on top of the scoreboard.
On Sunday, November 5, India will compete with South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. It’s going to be thrilling. Both teams are performing spectacularly.