Who should replace injured KL Rahul in India's test lineup? Sourav Ganguly has his say

Sourav Ganguly has his say on who should replace KL Rahul in India's batting lineup.

Sourav Ganguly, the former chief of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), stated on Friday that the decision to choose a replacement player for Indian wicket-keeper batsman KL Rahul in the World Test Championship 2023 final would be up to Indian cricket coach Rahul Dravid. KL Rahul announced on his Instagram handle that he will be sidelined for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia and the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to thigh injury. Rahul was a member of the 15-man Indian Test squad that was announced by the BCCI on April 25.

According to Ganguly, Rahane is among the available options in the squad, but ultimately it is up to Dravid to decide who would be the best replacement for KL Rahul. "It's for Rahul Dravid to decide, Rahane is there," Ganguly told mediapersons.

KL Rahul to undergo surgery for thigh injury

KL Rahul, in an Instagram post, has confirmed that he will be undergoing surgery on his thigh, ruling him out of the IPL 2023 and World Test Championship final against Australia that is scheduled to take place from June 7 at The Oval in London.

"Update - After careful consideration and consultation with the medical team, it's been concluded that I'll be undergoing surgery on my thigh shortly. As the team captain, it pains me deeply not to be able to be there during this crucial period. But, I'm confident that the boys will rise to the occasion and give their best performance as always. I'll be cheering for them from the sidelines with all of you, watching every game. @lucknowsupergiants," Rahul posted.

“Absolutely gutted that I won't be at the Oval next month with Team India. I'll do everything I can to get back in blue and help my country. That has always been my focus and priority. @indiancricketteam. I want to express gratitude to each one of you - my fans, that gave me the strength to get back up, the LSG management and the BCCI for their promptness, and my teammates for their unwavering support during this difficult time," he added. "The last few days have been really hard, but I'm determined to come out on top. Injuries are never easy, but I'll give it my all as always. Thank you for all the support and good wishes," he added.

During a match against the Royal Challengers Bangalore on May 1, KL Rahul sustained an injury in the second over while chasing a ball in the outfield. He grabbed his thigh and then limped off the field.