Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul has been ruled out of the IPL and the World Test Championship final against Australia next month, with a thigh injury that he sustained earlier this week.
He took to Instagram to say he will need thigh surgery and was “absolutely gutted” to not be able to play at The Oval next month. Krunal Pandya will continue to lead the Super Giants in his absence.
“My focus will be on my rehabilitation and recovery in the coming weeks,” Rahul’s post said. “It’s a tough call to make, but I know it’s the right one to ensure a full recovery.
“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.
“After careful consideration and consultation with the medical team, it’s been concluded that I’ll be undergoing a surgery on my thigh shortly.”
Meanwhile, his IPL franchise too issued a press release saying the batter has suffered a significant tear to his tendon and was facing a “lengthy layoff”.
Rahul injured himself while trying to stop a boundary against RCB in Lucknow.
“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,” he said.
Unadkat in doubt
Jaydev Unadkat, who injured his left shoulder while bowling at the nets, has also been ruled out of the IPL. A call on his participation in the WTC final will be taken shortly. He is undergoing rehabilitation at the NCA.
Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are already out of the WTC final.
