India batter KL Rahul is likely to be rested for the upcoming white-ball series against England, starting January 22 in Kolkata. The series, comprising five T20s and three ODIs, holds significance as it precedes the Champions Trophy commencing February 19. However, Rahul will be available for the Champions Trophy. India’s games will be in Dubai, while other matches will take place in host nation Pakistan.

“He has sought a break for the England series but will be available for the Champions Trophy,” a BCCI source told PTI. Rahul, one of India’s better performers in the Test series in Australia, was the third-highest scorer with 276 runs in 10 innings at an average of 30.66. He is also in contention for the wicketkeeper-batter role in the Champions Trophy, competing with Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson. Rahul has also opted out of Karnataka’s Vijay Hazare Trophy matches.