KL Rahul not likely to play the first Test against Australia: Aakash Chopra

The on-going practice sessions are on in full spirit ahead of the much-awaited Pink ball Test match in Adelaide. The two top-notch teams have already played two warm-up matches before the high-profile game on 17th December. Talking about the squad for the upcoming up first Test, Aakash Chopra believes that KL Rahul might not be a part of the playing XI in the opening Test.

The commentator reasoned because the wicket-keeper was not present in either of the practice matches. However, Rahul's records in the most extended format of the game are good enough. He can open the innings along with Prithvi Shaw or Shubman Gill.

Chopra further added that Rahul has always done well in overseas conditions. He has scored a Test century in Australia, England, and West Indies. However, his last 10 Test innings do not speak in favor of the batsman. Mostly, there might be chances that he will not be considered.

KL Rahul is one of the finest players: Aakash Chopra

The 43-year-old stated that Rahul has a brilliant record in the short formats of the game. His numbers have also leveled up in the most extended form, but having not played any of the practice matches can raise several questions.

KL Rahul might not feature as an opener in the Adelaide Test. The chances of either Prithvi Shaw or Shubman Gill is more to open the innings with Mayank Agarwal. 

The Kings XI Punjab skipper will indeed be considered to take Kohli's spot in the middle order after his departure. On the other hand, Prithvi Shaw has played only four tests and scored 335 runs. His current average is 55.83, with one hundred and two fifties.

Chopra observed that Shaw was out of action for quite some time after the magnificent start to his Test career. He was first out due to injury concerns and then due to a doping violation. Aakash Chopra also pointed out that Shaw can score runs in difficult seaming conditions. 

The former KKR player further added that the youngster gave a decent account of himself in the first innings of the pink-ball practice match. He scored 40 and 3 in the last practice game.

Aakash Chopra concluded by stating that Shaw is likely to be Agarwal's opening partner for the first pink ball test. The first pink-ball encounter between India and Australia will start on December 17, 2020.

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