Last Updated on 3 weeks by Charbel Coorey

India looked to have fresh concerns after KL Rahul walked off the field with an injury during their intra-squad match at the WACA in Perth ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rahul, batting on 29*, was struck on the right arm by a rising delivery from Prasidh Krishna. After receiving attention from the physiotherapist, he was in too much discomfort to continue.

“KL Rahul’s not looking very comfortable after being struck on his right elbow/forearm off a rising delivery. Tried to resume batting by shaking it off but clearly couldn’t. And now leaving with the physio,” wrote journalist Bharat Sundaresan on X.

KL Rahul injury update: Batsman expected to be fit for first Test

According to reports, Rahul leaving the field was precautionary. India Today reported that sources have provided reassurance that he will be fine for the first Test which begins at Optus Stadium on November 22. “They [sources] reassured that he was doing well and there were no concerns regarding injuries within the Indian camp,” read the report.

However, The Hindu reported that a BCCI source said that it will take time to assess his elbow. “About Rahul, it’s just happened so will take some time to assess (his elbow),” said the sources to PTI.

With Rohit Sharma expected to miss the first Test due to paternity leave, Rahul is the favourite to partner Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order. His form is of concern, with a lack of runs heading into the series, including an underwhelming outing for India A where he was bowled in comical fashion against Corey Rocchiccioli.

“There are times you go with experienced players as well. He [KL Rahul] can bat at the top, middle order and at No. 6 as well. He can keep wicket; can do the job for us if Rohit is not available for the 1st Test. We will try and get the best combination – be it KL, Gill or Easwaran”, coach Gautam Gambhir said ahead of the big series.

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