BCCI’s Decision Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy Surprised Fans, KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel Are Eying For Opportunities
Following the shameful defeat against the Kiwis on home ground, BCCI is taking some surprising steps as wicketkeeper-batters KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel are set to depart for Australia to participate in the second unofficial Test between India A and Australia A, which begins on November 7 at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Both players aim to utilize this match for crucial preparation ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy following limited playing time in India’s recent Test series against New Zealand. Rahul played in the first Test in Bengaluru but was later replaced by Shubman Gill following his poor performance with the bat, while Jurel served as a backup wicketkeeper, taking the gloves briefly due to Rishabh Pant’s knee injury.
In their previous outing, India A, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, lost to Australia A by seven wickets in Mackay after being bowled out for 107 in their first innings. This Test will provide Rahul and Jurel with their only competitive action before the Border-Gavaskar series, following the cancellation of a planned intra-squad match in favor of targeted training sessions in Perth. Also, this could be a deciding game for them to lock the place of keeper-batter in which Rishabh Pant is the first choice of team India.
The India A squad includes emerging talents such as Bengal’s opener Abhimanyu Easwaran and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, both of whom are expected to play key roles. Easwaran’s presence is vital due to Rohit Sharma’s anticipated absence early in the Border-Gavaskar series, while Reddy’s versatility enhances the team’s depth.
The BCCI has scheduled Rahul and Jurel’s departure for November 5, allowing them time to adjust before the match at the MCG.
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