Emerging reports suggest Rajat Patidar’s likely exclusion from India’s fifth Test against England in Dharamsala. Despite numerous chances, Patidar has failed to make a substantial impact, scoring just 63 runs in six innings. Consequently, India may replace him for the final dead-rubber match due to his poor form.
If Patidar indeed gets dropped, left-handed batsman Devdutt Padikkal could potentially make his Test debut. Padikkal showcased exceptional consistency during the Ranji Trophy 2024, accumulating an impressive 556 runs in six innings at a phenomenal average of 92.66.
Captain Rohit Sharma is expected to continue opening with Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shubman Gill, Padikkal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel will follow in the middle order. Veteran all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will handle spin bowling duties. Jasprit Bumrah may return to bolster the pace attack, possibly replacing Kuldeep Yadav. Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep are poised to provide additional support.
Probable playing XI for India in the fifth Test expected to be:
Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Devdutt Padikkal, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep.
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