India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive for Covid-19 and could not accompany the team to Dubai for Asia Cup. The Asia Cup is starting on August 27, in Dubai.
India will play its first match with its arch-rival Pakistan on August 28.Â
“Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive for COVID-19 in a routine test conducted ahead of the team’s departure to the UAE for Asia Cup 2022,” a BCCI release said. “Mr. Dravid is under the supervision of the BCCI Medical team and has mild symptoms. He will join the team once he returns with a negative COVID-19 report. The rest of the team will assemble in the UAE on 23rd August 2022.”
According to reports, Dravid had mild symptoms which have receded. For now, Assistant Coach Paras Mhambrey has taken over. A decision is yet to be taken whether VVS Laxman who coached India on the Zimbabwe tour while Dravid was on a short break would be called or not.Â
A source told PTI that a call is yet to be taken on calling VVS Laxman from Harare to Dubai. All other players and members are fit and left for Dubai as planned.Â
Dravid will take another covid test after two days, till then he is in quarantine. The Asia Cup is the last tournament that India will play before the big T20 World Cup in Australia slated to be held in October-November.Â
The Asia Cup would be a lot more important for players who are looking to book a slot in the upcoming T20 World Cup. However, according to reports, 11-12 slots in the T20 squad have already been finalized by the selectors. Asia Cup would determine the rest of the four spots.Â
Asia Cup would also be a good screening test for the biggies of the Indian Cricket Team who are or are not currently in form. The Indian side is already waiting for Jasprit Burmah and Harshal Patel to get fit and get back to the game. All eyes would be on Virat Kohli as he is going through a hiatus of sorts when it comes to his form.
