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KL Rahul In For Karun Nair; Probable Changes In India-A Playing XI For 2nd Test vs ENG Lions

Debashis Sarangi

KL Rahul could replace Karun Nair [Source: @CricCrazyJohns, @cricbuzz/X]KL Rahul could replace Karun Nair [Source: @CricCrazyJohns, @cricbuzz/X]

On Friday, India-A will take on England Lions in the second unofficial Test of the ongoing series. Led by Abhimanyu Easwaran, the Indian A side showcased commendable skills in the inaugural affair, which concluded in a stalemate. 

However, with the five-match series coming up, several senior players will likely play the second unofficial Test to prepare for the high-voltage tour. So, as the Indian A side prepares for the much-awaited clash, let's see what could be the possible changes in their combination. 

KL Rahul To Replace Karun Nair?

Veteran Indian batter KL Rahul recently confirmed his availability for the second unofficial Test against England Lions. The Karnataka batter expressed his desire to play this game, which could help him prepare for the five-Test series against England. 

In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul could be asked to open the batting in the England Tests. Thus, he actually needs some game time ahead of the high-voltage series. 

Therefore, if he is available, Rahul might replace Karun Nair, who oozed his class with a sensational double hundred in the last game. 

Nair had ample game time in the previous game, which is why India-A promoted Dhruv Jurel and Nitish Reddy ahead of him in the second innings. 

Despite smashing a quick-fire fifty in the second innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal could be allotted another unofficial Test to fine-tune his red-ball game, considering his importance for India in the upcoming Test series. 

Nitish, Shardul Could Get Another Chance; Akash Deep Likely To Come In

All-rounder Nitish Reddy finally found his mojo during the second innings of the first unofficial Test, scoring a brisk 47-ball 52*. He could get another opportunity, considering he's a part of the Indian squad that will take on England in five Tests. 

India-A might also persist with Shardul Thakur despite slightly underwhelming returns in the previous match. Thakur, who bagged two wickets for 104 runs in 27 overs, is expected to get another chance to prove his mettle before the Test series. 

However, fast bowler Harshit Rana could be axed in favour of Akash Deep, who didn't participate in the last game. Akash Deep has been included in the India squad and could play this match to prepare for the England series. 

India A Probable Playing XI For 2nd Test vs England Lions

Abhimanyu Easwaran (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Nitish Reddy, Shardul Thakur, Harsh Dubey/Tanush Kotian, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep