KL Rahul has chosen to stay away from cricket after the grueling Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. According to sources, he has let the Ajit Agarkar-headed BCCI selection committee know that he would rather be excused from the upcoming limited-overs series against England, starting January 22 in Kolkata. The five T20s and three ODIs that comprise this series have special importance because they precede the Champions Trophy, which will begin on February 19.

Who’ll Play Instead Of KL Rahul?

Though Rahul may not get guaranteed inclusion in ODI, courtesy of the availability of Rishabh Pant and possible selection of Sanju Samson, he promised selectors that he is available to take part in Champions Trophy as the Indian teams would play only their matches there and the balance will be shifted to Pakistan.

KL Rahul On A Break

“He has sought a break for the England series, but he will be available for selection for the Champions Trophy,” a BCCI source told PTI on Thursday.

Despite India’s struggles at the top order in the Test series in Australia, Rahul was one of the few who made notable contributions. KL Rahul was the third-highest run-scorer for India with 276 runs from 10 innings at an average of 30.66. His tour started well, and Rahul filled in at the top of the order when Rohit Sharma was unavailable.

He impressed with solid performances during the Perth Test, forcing Rohit to accommodate him at the top for the subsequent matches. Rahul’s form dipped towards the series’ end and mirrored India’s struggles as they lost the last two Tests and the series 1-3.