KL Rahul said he was “gutted” after being ruled out of the five-match T20I series against South Africa due to a last-minute groin injury that he sustained during training. On the eve of the first game, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was named the captain in the Opener’s absence. 

“Hard to accept but I begin another challenge today. Gutted not to be leading the side for the first time at home, but the boys have all my support from the sidelines. Heartfelt thanks to all for your support. Wishing Rishabh and the boys all the luck for the series. See you soon,” he said in a tweet on Thursday. 

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The 30-year-old from Bengaluru, who showed commendable form in the recently-concluded 15th season of the Indian Premier League, was named captain in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, who was rested following the lucrative league.

Besides Rahul, left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also been ruled out of the series after suffering a blow on his right hand while batting on Tuesday.

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Pant, during a press conference on Wednesday, said he will be leading India with his chin up.

“It’s a very good feeling although it didn’t come in good circumstances. The news just came in for me as well an hour back so I’m also processing it,” the newly-appointed skipper said on the eve of the first match.

“I haven’t even digested the information yet. It is a great feeling getting this opportunity, especially in my hometown,” the Delhi cricketer said.

IND vs SA T20I Schedule

1st T20I- June, 9 – Delhi 

2nd T20- June 12 – Cuttack 

3rd T20I- June 14 – Visakhapatnam

4th T20I- June 17 – Rajkot 

5th T20I- June 19-Bengaluru