Where is KL Rahul? Star Batter Missing from Team India's Practice Session Ahead of Manchester Test

As Team India gears up for a must-win fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, a notable absence from the practice session on July 17 has raised eyebrows — KL Rahul was missing.

The Indian team practiced at the Kent County Cricket Ground as part of their preparations. With the five-match Test series currently tilted 2-1 in England’s favor, the stakes for the Manchester Test, starting July 23, are high. Almost all players attended the session — except Rahul, who has been one of India's standout performers in the series so far.

KL Rahul’s Red-Hot Form

KL Rahul has been in exceptional form throughout the series. He has already scored two centuries — one in the first Test and another in the third — and has amassed 375 runs in three matches at an impressive average of 62.00. He currently stands fourth on the list of highest run-scorers in the series.

His absence from the recent practice session has sparked curiosity and concern among fans and pundits alike. As of now, no official reason has been provided for his non-attendance, and the BCCI has not released any statement on whether it is due to a minor niggle, illness, or personal reasons.

India’s Schedule Ahead

Team India will take a break on July 18 and travel to Manchester on July 19. The squad is expected to resume practice at Old Trafford from July 20 in the lead-up to the fourth Test. A win in Manchester is crucial if India wants to level the series and stay in contention going into the final Test.

England Lead the Series

England took the lead by winning the first and third Tests, while India secured victory in the second. The third Test at Lord’s saw KL Rahul’s superb century go in vain as India lost by 22 runs in a close finish. With the series finely poised, Rahul’s availability and form will be crucial to India’s chances.