Guwahati: Indian coach Rahul Dravid has tested Covid-19 positive ahead of Asia Cup 2022, which is a major setback. As the team prepares to depart for UAE, where they will compete in the regional tournament prior to the T20 World Cup, it is unclear whether Dravid will be able to join the rest of the group.
Notably, the senior selection committee decided to rest Rahul Dravid, along with batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, for the recently finished three-match series in Zimbabwe. VVS Laxman, the director of the National Cricket Academy, travelled to Zimbabwe without Dravid to lead a team that included KL Rahul.
Since India’s early elimination from the T20 World Cup, Dravid and skipper Rohit Sharma have played a significant role in changing the way India has played T20 International cricket. When the head coach can travel to the UAE, where the Asia Cup will be held, is still up in the air.
A day after the opening match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, India will take on Pakistan in a high-stakes opener in Dubai on August 28.
The Asian giants will be led by India at the Asia Cup as they attempt to defend their championship and complete a hat-trick of continental victories under Rohit Sharma. Most often than not, India’s top players will come together for the Asia Cup after going their separate ways, and Virat Kohli, the former captain who is trying to regain his form, will be the centre of attention.
The great pacer Jasprit Bumrah will not be representing India in the Asia Cup due to a back issue. Harshal Patel, who is battling to be healthy enough for the T20 World Cup as well, would be missed by India.
KL Rahul, who led India to a 3-0 victory in Zimbabwe, will take over as vice-captain. As he prepares to stand with Rohit at the top, the Lucknow Super Giants captain will want to perform at his best.