Rahul is Kohli's deputy for Tests

New Delhi, December 18

Opener KL Rahul has been named as the Indian team's vice-captain for the upcoming three-Test series against South Africa, which starts on December 26.

The position fell vacant after Rohit Sharma — who had been named deputy to Virat Kohli for the series — was ruled out due to a recurring left-hamstring injury.

The 29-year-old Rahul has played 40 Tests and has scored 2321 runs at an average of 35.16, with six centuries to his credit. He is being looked at as a long-term potential leader.

"The All-India Senior selection committee has named KL Rahul as vice-captain for the upcoming 3-match Test series against South Africa. KL Rahul replaces Rohit Sharma as vice-captain, who was ruled out of the Test series owing to a hamstring injury," a BCCI statement said.

Sharma, who had replaced Ajinkya Rahane as the vice-captain for the Test series, suffered a left hamstring injury during nets in Mumbai, which ruled him out for at least three to four weeks.

For the selectors, it was difficult to go back to Rahane, who is no longer a certainty in the Test XI. Further, it would be too early for Rishabh Pant to be elevated to the position of vice-captain of the Test team.

Rahul is seen as one of the few all-format specialist batters. He is at the right age and experience to be groomed for the future when Kohli would relinquish the Test leadership. — PTI