The chairman for selectors in India, MSK Prasad has backed out-of-form top-order batsman KL Rahul to come good in the time to come. Recently, the promising batsman Rahul had a torrid time with the bat.
“He is too good a player not to be playing. We know the quality that he has. Unfortunately, his form has dipped. We really want him to make a strong comeback by getting runs in whatever matches he gets. I am sure he will do so,” Prasad told Sportstar.
Earlier, the Karnataka-batsman had to return home midway through the One-day International (ODI) bilateral series when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had taken a stern action following inappropriate comments on television show Koffee with Karan.
Other than Rahul, all-rounder, Hardik Pandya was involved owing to the ‘misogynistic’ remarks in January.
However, the duo drew flak for their misconduct which led to their suspension on January 11.
Following the derogatory comments, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) has sought advice from Amicus Curiae PS Narasimha.
Eventually, Rahul and Pandya had been given leeway on January 24, pending inquiry.
Meanwhile, Prasad believes Rahul has the potential to leave an impact while regaining his form anytime soon. He added the 26-year-old has all the time to make it to the national fold on the back of his knocks.
“I think when a player who has done extremely well and is out of form, that’s where we need to back him. I am sure KL will get back to form and get back into Indian team as well,” Prasad stated.
MSK Prasad reveals the inclusion of Rahul in India A squad:
Moreover, Hardik redeemed himself with an opportunity to make it to the ongoing Kiwis limited-overs series, as Rahul joined India A for the home series against England Lions.
With India A facing England Lions on Thursday at Wayanad in Kerala, Prasad revealed his inclusion was made to see him among runs.
“We want KL to be among runs. And that’s why we have included him against England Lions and BP XI match,” Prasad said.
The former cricketer Prasad reiterated that veterans of the game have had to face rough times during their respective careers. He stressed it’s part and parcel of the game and one should move on and focus on giving their best.
“Everybody goes through those phases. Even the greatest of players have their ups and downs in their careers with regard to their form,” Prasad stressed.
The right-handed batsman Rahul has so far featured in 34 Tests, 25 Twenty20 Internationals and 13 ODIs for India.
