Sourav Ganguly on KL Rahul debate: “When you fail for a spell, certainly there will be criticism.”

Sourav Ganguly has joined the debate about KL Rahul’s place in the Indian team, which has been a hot topic in cricket lately. India has won the first two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 with strong performances from all departments. But, Rahul’s dismal performances have prompted some to question the management’s decision to include him in the Test team.

Rahul’s batting average dropped to 33.44 after 47 Tests after scoring 38 runs in three innings against Australia. Ganguly has joined Venkatesh Prasad in advocating for Rahul’s inclusion in the team. The former BCCI president said Rahul’s inability to hit runs in India led to his criticism.

Sourav Ganguly told ESPN cricinfo, “When you don’t score runs in India, obviously you will get flak. KL Rahul hasn’t been the only one. There have been players in the past also. There’s so much focus and attention with lot of pressure on players. The team management thinks he is an important player for the team. At the end of the day, what coach and captain think is important.”

Shubman Gill may have to wait, according to team management: Sourav Ganguly

Rahul will play the last two Tests against Australia but not as vice-captain. The player may be benched in the coming games. Rahul’s probable alternatives are Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan.

Sourav Ganguly believes Rahul has talent and will get more chances to prove himself. He added that Gill must wait until his turn.

“He has performed but obviously you expect a lot more from a top order batter playing for India because the standards set by others are so high. When you fail for a while, obviously there will be criticism. I am sure Rahul has ability and I am sure as and when he gets more opportunities, he will have to find ways to score.

“I’m confident Shubman Gill will receive many opportunities when his time comes.” I believe the captain, coach, and selectors really value him. That’s why he’s playing ODIs and T20Is, and he’s done well. Ganguly continued, “But at the moment, perhaps team management is saying he has to wait.”

With a 2-0 advantage, India will face Australia in the third match at Indore’s Holkar Stadium on March 1. Australia’s captain Pat Cummins has returned home due to family obligations, thus the Indian squad may keep or drop Rahul.