India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has offered a reassuring update on KL Rahul’s fitness after the opener retired hurt on 77 during the first day of the opening Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday.
Rahul had looked composed at the top of the order before cramps and discomfort forced him to leave the field soon after the tea break. The India vice-captain received treatment on the field before heading back to the dressing room with the team physiotherapist.
There were initial concerns about Rahul’s condition as he appeared to struggle with cramps and discomfort. He was also seen experiencing pain in his right hand, prompting the Indian medical team to assess him after his retirement.
However, Kotak eased those concerns, saying Rahul was feeling fine by the end of the day and was expected to return to the crease on Sunday.
“KL batted really well. I think he was getting only cramps. So by the end of the day, he was fine. Probably once you start getting cramps, you get it in the hamstring, you get it in the groin, you get it in your hand. But at the moment he looks absolutely fine. So he should be good to go tomorrow,” Kotak said during the post-day press conference.
KOTAK PRAISES RAHUL’S FLEXIBILITY
Kotak also praised Rahul’s ability to adapt to different roles for India, highlighting his willingness to bat wherever the team requires him.
He pointed out that Rahul has batted at No. 5 or No. 6 in one-day cricket while continuing to open in Test matches. According to Kotak, that adaptability makes the experienced batter particularly valuable to the team.
He also praised Rahul for taking responsibility and consistently building partnerships.
Rahul was instrumental in India’s strong start in Galle, scoring 77 from 162 deliveries with nine fours and a six. He played the role of an anchor as India negotiated the early threat from Sri Lanka’s bowlers.
The opener put together a 150-run partnership with Devdutt Padikkal, helping India recover after Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed early. The pair remained patient and kept the Sri Lankan attack under pressure through much of the opening two sessions.
Rahul eventually retired hurt with India on 138/1, ending an innings that had given the visitors a solid foundation. Padikkal continued his impressive performance after Rahul’s departure and went on to score his maiden Test century.
INDIA END DAY 1 IN COMMAND
India closed the opening day on 288/2, putting themselves in a strong position in the Test. Padikkal remained unbeaten on 131 from 178 balls, including 12 fours and a six, while Rishabh Pant was not out on 27 from 36 deliveries.
Padikkal’s century was the standout moment of the day as India capitalised on winning the toss. The left-hander became increasingly aggressive as his innings progressed, particularly during the post-tea session.
Sri Lanka managed only two wickets throughout the day. Jaiswal was run out for 32 during the opening hour following a mix-up with Rahul, while India captain Shubman Gill fell for 16 to left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya.
Jayasuriya finally removed Gill in his 21st over after the India captain attempted an unconventional shot. However, Sri Lanka were unable to capitalise as Padikkal and Pant continued scoring during the final session.
Attention will now turn to Rahul when India resume on Day 2. If he is fit to return as expected, he will have the chance to continue his unfinished innings and build on his unbeaten 77.
