KL Rahul expected to resume innings for India on Day 2 of first Test in Galle

KL Rahul is expected to bat for India on Day 2 of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle after retiring hurt during India’s first-innings on Day 1. India finished the opening day in a commanding position and the team’s batting coach provided an encouraging update on Rahul’s fitness.

India, led by Shubman Gill, reached 288 for 2 at the close of play on Day 1, with Devdutt Padikkal unbeaten on a century and Rishabh Pant described as looking settled. The visitors won the toss and chose to bat on what the report described as a good batting surface; openers gave a solid start before a running mix-up resulted in Yashasvi Jaiswal’s run-out. KL Rahul and Devdutt Padikkal compiled a 150-run partnership after Rahul had added 47 with Jaiswal, helping put India in a dominant position.

Rahul was forced to retire hurt on 77 after suffering cramps late on Day 1 and was described as looking uncomfortable toward the end of his innings. The scorecard lists him at 77 from 162 balls when he retired hurt rather than being dismissed.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak addressed Rahul’s condition after the day’s play. “KL batted really well. I think he was getting only cramps. So, by the end of the day, he was fine,” Kotak said. He added, “But at the moment he looked absolutely fine. So he should be good to go tomorrow.”

Because Rahul retired hurt instead of being dismissed, the laws permit him to resume his innings later if India require him to bat again. Kotak’s comments indicated Rahul had recovered by the close of play and was expected to be available to return to the crease on Day 2 if needed.

If he does return, Rahul will resume his innings on 77; his presence at the crease was noted as important as India aim to build a large first-innings total in Galle.