The Indian team management has decided to relieve KL Rahul from the wicketkeeping duties in Test matches, creating an opportunity for Ishan Kishan to secure the spot in the upcoming Test series against England starting on January 25. However, this comes with a condition as Kishan is ordered to prove his fitness in a Ranji Trophy match before making a comeback. The decision follows debates over Kishan's absence from the Afghanistan T20Is, with reports suggesting potential mistrust between him and the team management.
Team India's policy, under head coach Rahul Dravid, requires players to prove their fitness in domestic matches after missing international fixtures due to various reasons. Despite Dravid clarifying that there was no disciplinary action against Kishan, reports had earlier claimed unhappiness within the management after Kishan was seen partying in Dubai during his break. The 25-year-old has been given a clear directive to participate in first-class cricket to be considered as the first-choice keeper for the England series.