Ranji Trophy – The Hindu

Rahul is likely to open the batting for Karnataka.
| Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR K

K.L. Rahul and Vidwath Kaverappa were back in Karnataka colours in the team’s training session here on Tuesday. The duo is set to feature in Karnataka’s crucial Elite ‘C’ group stage match against Haryana which commences here on Thursday. 

Rahul’s last Ranji Trophy appearance came in February 2020. The batter, who played all five Tests in Australia recently, is likely to open the batting for Karnataka. 

Kaverappa, a consistent performer, makes his comeback from injury. Kaverappa joins a fine Karnataka pace line-up consisting of Prasidh Krishna, V. Koushik, Abhilash Shetty and Yashovardhan Parantap. V. Vyshak remains unavailable due to an injury.

Rahul batted in the KSCA ‘B’ ground, before moving to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium main ground for a catching session. 

Kaverappa bowled at full tilt, and had a hit in the nets. 

Karnataka captain Mayank Agarwal was pleased to have his mate Rahul back. “I really enjoy playing with K.L. (Rahul). I have no doubt in my mind that when he’s here he’s going to put in those performances and add a lot of value,” Mayank said. 

Mayank stated that Kaverappa is “hungry” to get into the thick of things again. “When I spoke to him (Kaverappa), he was really looking forward to coming back and playing some games. Knowing his attitude – he’s very hungry, he always wants to go out and give his best and perform for the team. We’ve seen that over the last couple of years, so we’re glad to have him back,” Mayank said. 

On the value of having a near full strength squad, Mayank said, “Even in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, when Prasidh (Krishna) and Devdutt (Padikkal) came back, the attitude they had was phenomenal. It boosted our team, and raised the intensity of each player. With Vidwath and Rahul back, that same intensity will make it better for all of us,” Mayank said.