Bhuvneshwar and Rahul to play Ranji Trophy to prove fitness

Opener Rahul picked up a hamstring strain during the first Test, while pacer Bhuvneshwar was ruled out of the final Test in Indore with a back strain after his five-wicket haul helped set up the home side’s win in the second game. Both have been out of competitive action since.

Bhuvneshwar’s return will bolster UP, who play Mumbai in Mysore starting Sunday, with is the side yet to secure a win this season and currently eighth in the nine-team group.

Meanwhile, Rahul will join rampant Karnataka who are on a roll having already secured three outright victories. They play Rajasthan in Vizianagaram on the same dates.