Reports: KL Rahul likely to miss Sri Lanka Tests, seen as India's Test captain ahead of Rohit Sharma

In what can be called a major development, KL Rahul is set to miss the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali and his availability for the second Test isn’t confirmed either. The star batter sustained a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies. He subsequently got ruled out of the third ODI and succeeding T20I series.

Notably, Team India is set to host the Lankan Lions in three T20Is and a couple of Test matches, starting on February 24. Rahul might give these fixtures a miss as his injury would take a while to heal. It has also been learnt that Rahul’s unavailability is the reason why Rohit Sharma will lead India in Sri Lanka Tests. The crucial position became vacant after Virat Kohli stepped down following India’s 1-2 defeat against South Africa last month.

KL Rahul to take over as Test captain?

Rohit is already leading the white-ball teams and, as per numerous reports, was set to become India’s all-format captain. However, the latest development suggests Rahul is preferred to take the role.“KL Rahul will be unavailable for Mohali Test & there’s no confirmation if he’ll play the 2nd Test in B’lore. That is why Rohit Sharma has been asked to lead,” tweeted veteran journalist K Shriniwas Rao.

KL Rahul will be unavailable for Mohali Test & there's no confirmation if he'll play the 2nd Test in B'lore.

That is why Rohit Sharma has been asked to lead.

— KSR (@KShriniwasRao) February 18, 2022

It must be noted that Rahul led India in the second Test against South Africa with both Rohit and Virat being unavailable. Although the visitors lost the contest by seven wickets, many reckon Rahul can continue with the role. This is majorly because Rohit will turn 35 this year and has been prone to injuries.

However, it seems like Rahul will have to wait for some for time to get the full-time role. Meanwhile, the Men in Blue are currently battling it out against West Indies in the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. Having won the opening clash by six wickets, Rohit Sharma’s men are 1-0 up and would like to seal the series in the second match.