Having led India in 12 ODIs, three Tests and one T20I prior to this, KL Rahul is all set to lead in the 50-over games against South Africa.

With Shubman Gill still recovering from a neck injury sustained during the first Test against South Africa and ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer nursing an injury since the ODI series against Australia last month, India were on the lookout for a new captain to hold the fort until Gill returns to full fitness.

KL Rahul was chosen to take the reins for the three-match ODI series against South Africa, a decision which he was informed of, at the very last moment.

"Just a day before the announcement, I was told that the opportunity might come and I might have to lead (India)," he said on the eve of the first ODI in Ranchi.