WATCH: KL Rahul resumes practice after elbow injury scare, makes himself available for playing Perth Test

KL Rahul. (Source – BCCI)

Star Indian batter KL Rahul was declared fit for the upcoming first Test against Australia at Perth’s Optus Stadium, following an injury scare during practice sessions. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed his availability through a comprehensive medical update, dismissing all the concerns about the senior batter’s participation in the series opener.

The 32-year-old had initially created worry in Team India‘s camp when he was struck on the elbow by a rising delivery from Prasidh Krishna during an intra-squad match on November 15. However, subsequent medical examinations and his return to practice have provided reassuring signs for the team management. Team physiotherapists Kamlesh Jain and Yogesh Parmar expressed confidence in Rahul’s recovery.

“The key for us is to make sure that there’s no fracture or boning lesions in there. 48 hours since the impact, and he’s responded well to treatments, he should be ready to go,” Kamlesh said in a video posted by BCCI.

“I took him for the x-ray and scan and everything, and based upon the reporting, I was a lot more confident. He should be fine. It was just a matter of controlling the pain and giving him some confidence. So from a medical point of view, he is absolutely fine,” Yogesh further added.

I’m excited, and looking forward for the series: KL Rahul

KL Rahul himself appeared optimistic about his recovery and preparation for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The right-hander said that he had a lot of time preparing for this series and is excited for the contest against the mighty Aussies.

Also Read: AUS vs IND: KL Rahul returns to practice session after being hit on elbow

“I got a bad hit on day one of the game. 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,” Rahul said.

With regular captain, Rohit Sharma likely to miss the series opener, Rahul is set to open the innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal, despite the squad consisting of Abhimanyu Easwaran. Meanwhile, Team India face the hard task of winning four and drawing one of their remaining five Tests to secure the spot in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.