While Rahul’s absence from domestic cricket might raise eyebrows, his decision aligns with his need for physical and mental rejuvenation as he prepares for the intense pressure of the Champions Trophy.

While the high-profile India batting crumbled in the Test series in Australia, Rahul was among the few batters who got runs.

Indian batter KL Rahul has opted to skip the upcoming white-ball series against England, starting in Kolkata on January 22, as per PTI. The home series consists of five T20s and three ODIs.

After an arduous series, Rahul was supposed to join the Karnataka team for the remaining rounds of the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, as the team has reached the knockouts of the 50-over domestic tournament. But the wicketkeeper-batter has opted out of the tournament, requesting a break from the intense cricketing schedule and to reduce the workload.

As Team India gets ready for the Champions Trophy 2025, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant are expected to contend for the starting wicket-keeping spot.

Indian cricketer KL Rahul will be missing the upcoming eight-match white-ball series against England. The series, comprising five T20Is and three ODIs, will start on January 22 in Kolkata. As per a report in The Times of India, although Rahul will miss this series, national selectors have assured him of a place in the Champions Trophy in February.

KL Rahul will be unavailable for Karnataka for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, following the five-Test series against Australia.

With the England series starting on January 22, KL Rahul can make his return with the white-ball series against Three-Lions.