NEW DELHI: Team India batter KL Rahul has dismissed concerns about his fitness ahead of the highly anticipated first Test of the Border–Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in Perth.
In a video shared by the BCCI, Rahul confirmed he was recovering well after sustaining a blow to his elbow during a simulation match. “I got a bad hit on day one of the game,” he admitted, but reassured fans with his progress. “I’m feeling good, and I’m battered today. Getting ready for the first game. I was happy that I could come here early, get some time to get used to the conditions. And, yeah, I’ve got a lot of time preparing for the series, and I’m excited and looking forward to it.”
Team India’s physiotherapy team, including Kamlesh Jain and Yogesh Parmar, played a key role in ensuring Rahul’s recovery.
Jain explained, “The key for us is to make sure there’s no fracture or bony lesions. It’s been 48 hours since the impact, and he’s responded well to treatment.”
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Parmar added, “Based on the scan reports, we were confident it was just about managing pain and giving him confidence. From a medical point of view, he’s absolutely fine.”
Rahul’s return to training on Sunday brought much-needed relief to the Indian camp, especially after Shubman Gill’s unfortunate thumb fracture ruled him out of the first Test.
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During practice, Rahul faced pace spearheads Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj for nearly an hour on the centre wicket before heading to the nets for further sessions with both new and old balls.
His recovery ensures that he will likely open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.
The Indian team has been rigorously preparing at the WACA Ground with match simulations against India A and fringe players to acclimatize to Australian conditions.
Rahul’s return to form and fitness is especially crucial as the 32-year-old seeks redemption after losing his place in the XI following a lean run against New Zealand.