Despite a challenging start to Test cricket, reports from The Indian Express suggest that India’s Rajat Patidar is likely to retain his spot for the 5th Test against England in Dharamshala.
India’s Rajat Patidar, earning his maiden Test call-up on the back of impressive domestic and India A performances, has faced a challenging initiation to Test cricket. Despite the absence of stalwarts like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, Patidar, given the opportunity to stake his claim as a regular Test player, has managed just 63 runs across six innings, averaging a meager 10.5 and appearing uncomfortable at the crease.
Nevertheless, reports from The Indian Express suggest that India’s team management is inclined to back Patidar for the fifth Test against England in Dharamshala. Citing belief in his talent, they intend to afford him another opportunity to showcase his capabilities, opting to persist with Patidar over handing a debut to the uncapped Devdutt Padikkal.
“The team wants Patidar to get one more chance as they feel Patidar has talent and it’s a matter of time before he gets runs. As India has already won the series, the team wants to try him out one more time instead of giving a debut to Devdutt Padikkal,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying.
KL Rahul’s ongoing absence due to a quadriceps injury had extended Patidar’s opportunities in the Indian squad.
Earlier, Former South African captain AB de Villiers suggested in his recent YouTube video that India, having secured the series win and possessing a winning momentum, might continue to back Patidar. De Villiers emphasized the significance of Patidar’s attitude and likability in the dressing room, viewing him as a potential long-term asset in the Test setup.
ALSO READ | “Let’s Give Him a Longer Run”: AB de Villiers Backs Rajat Patidar After Sub-Par Performance
Last Updated on March 2, 2024
Senior Sports Copywriter
