Sourav Ganguly gives straightforward answer on KL Rahul's replacement for Test Championship final between India and Australia

KL Rahul announced on his Instagram account that he will miss the remaining games of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well as the Test Championship final versus Australia because of an injury. The Indian Cricket Board selected the 15-man Indian Test team on April 25. Rahul was a member of that team that was selected for the final and might have been in the playing XI.

Sourav Ganguly, the former president of the Indian Cricket Board, stated on Friday that it is up to Indian cricket coach Rahul Dravid to select the person who will take KL Rahul's place as the wicketkeeper for India in the 2023 Test Championship final. Ganguly while speaking to the media said that an experienced personnel in the form of Ajinkya Rahane is there with the team. He said, "It's for Rahul Dravid to decide, Rahane is there."

Rahul announced on Instagram that he would be having thigh surgery, which would exclude him from competing in the World Test Championship final versus Australia on June 7 at The Oval. The LSG skipper was hurt on May 1 as they played Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). In the second over, while pursuing the ball in the outfield, he grabbed his thigh and limped off the pitch.

Rahul said on Instagram as he gave an update regarding his fitness. He said, “Update - After careful consideration and consultation with the medical team, it's been concluded that I'll be undergoing surgery on my thigh shortly. My focus will be on my rehabilitation and recovery in the coming weeks. It's a tough call to make, but I know it's the right one to ensure a full recovery. 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. @lucknowsupergiants."

Then he gave an update on whether he will be available for the main match against Australia next month in the UK. He said, “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. @indiancricketteam. I want to express gratitude to each one of you - my fans, that gave me the strength to get back up, the LSG management and the BCCI for their promptness, and my teammates for their unwavering support during this difficult time. Your encouragement and messages mean a lot to me and motivate me to come back stronger and fitter than ever before."