Aoba Tanaka 
In a significant setback for Team India, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and middle-order batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the upcoming second Test against England, scheduled to commence in Vizag on February 2. The duo’s absence adds to India’s woes, as they currently trail the five-match series 0-1 after a narrow defeat in the first Test.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the injuries in a media release, stating, “Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury during play on Day 4 of the first Test in Hyderabad, while Rahul complained of a right quadriceps pain.” This development comes as a blow to India, especially with skipper Virat Kohli already unavailable for the first two Tests due to personal reasons.
To fill the void left by Jadeja and Rahul, the BCCI has included Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar in the squad for the second Test. Sarfaraz Khan, known for his prolific run-scoring in domestic cricket and a standout performance in the India A series against England Lions, earns his maiden national call-up.
With Jadeja’s all-round prowess and Rahul’s consistent performances, their absence will pose a challenge for India, who are under pressure after losing only their fourth Test at home since 2013 in the first match of the series.
In the first Test, both Rahul and Jadeja played crucial roles, contributing significantly before England staged a remarkable comeback to secure victory by 28 runs. Jadeja, with five wickets and an impressive 87 runs in the first innings, showcased his invaluable all-round abilities. KL Rahul, with a score of 86, displayed his consistent form in the Test format.
The injuries open up opportunities for the new additions to the squad. The off-spinner Washington Sundar, with promise shown in his four-Test career, could potentially replace Jadeja in the playing eleven. While Sarfaraz Khan gets his well-deserved call-up, the chances of Rajat Patidar making his debut in Vizag are also on the horizon.
As the BCCI Medical Team monitors the progress of Jadeja and Rahul, the focus now shifts to the new faces who will aim to make a mark in the crucial second Test against England. With the series delicately poised, India will be eager to bounce back and level the series on their home turf.
