India was completely whitewashed in the recent three-match Test series against New Zealand, despite playing on home soil. Now, the Indian team’s tour of Australia is set to start on November 22, where both teams will compete in a five-match Test series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Among the squad, KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel are set to receive a unique opportunity before the series, as the BCCI has reportedly made arrangements for them to play in the India A team. This move is seen as crucial preparation ahead of the Border-Gavaskar clash.
Rahul and Jurel to Feature for India A?
Star batsman KL Rahul and young wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel are expected to participate in a four-day unofficial Test with Australia A at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, scheduled from November 7 to 10. This practice opportunity, according to Express Sports, is a strategic decision by the BCCI to help both players gain form and experience in Australian conditions before the official Test series.
KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel added to India A squad. (Express Sports). pic.twitter.com/5YwBaHrRe2
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) November 3, 2024
Rahul and Jurel in the Squad for Border-Gavaskar Series
KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel are included in India’s squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with Jurel positioned as a backup for wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. KL Rahul, who has shown inconsistent performances recently, may see this unofficial Test as a vital chance to solidify his place in the starting lineup.
The dedication of KL Rahul. 👏
Instead of resting at home, he chose to play for India A as part of his preparations before BGT. Pls god give him what he deserves. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/BV6QkFfo21
— Kunal Yadav (@Kunal_KLR) November 3, 2024
India Squad for Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Main Squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Jasprit Bumrah (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.
Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed
The team is set to face challenging conditions, and this pre-series practice match could prove beneficial for Rahul and Jurel as they prepare for the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy.