KL Rahul has been medically cleared to play in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth on Friday, November 22, providing a boost to Team India. The 32-year-old was sidelined last week after being struck on the right elbow by a rising delivery from Prasidh Krishna during an intra-squad match at the WACA stadium. He retired hurt on 29 and missed subsequent training sessions.  

Rahul returned to action on November 17, participating in a three-hour net session, lifting spirits in the Indian camp, especially with Shubman Gill likely to miss the Perth Test due to a thumb injury. His fitness clearance followed match simulations featuring India's main XI against fringe and India A players. Rahul’s availability is crucial as India seeks a strong start in the highly anticipated series against Australia.