Reports: KL Rahul opts out of England series, available for Champions Trophy 2025 selections

KL Rahul batted with grit in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He was one of the few Indian batters who was termed technically sound against Australia by the former cricketers, as other batters struggled. Subsequently, after an arduous five-match Test series, Rahul opted out of ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25, where his home team, Karnataka, reached the knockout stages.

Rahul was impressive with the bat against Australia, as the wicketkeeper-batter scored 276 runs in 10 innings at an average of 30.67. He was expected to join the India team for the upcoming white-ball series against England. According to NDTV Sports, the batter has sought a break and will miss the series. However, a BCCI source confirmed that the right-handed batter will be available for Champions Trophy 2025 selections.

“He has sought a break for the England series, but he will be available for selection for Champions Trophy," the source said.

Shami comeback around the corner

Speaking of series against England, it will start with five match T20I series with the first T20I scheduled to commence on January 22 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. After the conclusion of the five T20Is, the three match ODI leg will start with the first ODI on February 6 at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. 

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: India to play warm-up game in Dubai

On the other hand, there are reports emerging on Mohammed Shami’s possible comeback with the England series. The star pacer last played for India in the World Cup 2023 final against Australia. Since then, he is nursing an ankle injury and has not donned the India jersey. Notably, the pacer played some domestic games for Bengal recently, but ankle swelling has prolonged his much awaited comeback.