According to a report in the Indian Express, Team India is expected to offer struggling newcomer Rajat Patidar another chance to showcase his talent and potential in the ongoing Test series against England. Despite facing criticism for his underwhelming performances in the Tests held in Vizag, Rajkot, and Ranchi, Rajat Patidar may receive a final opportunity to prove himself in the fifth Test in Dharamshala, commencing on Saturday, March 7.
This decision implies that Devdutt Padikkal, the highly productive batsman from Karnataka, will have to wait for his debut in Test cricket. Padikkal, who has demonstrated exceptional form in the Ranji Trophy and for India A, will have to bide his time before making his maiden appearance in the longer format for Team India.
Rajat Patidar struggles at the crease against England have been evident, with scores of just 32, 9, 5, 0, 17, and 0 in his first three Tests for India. Despite entering the series with high expectations and a strong domestic record, the 30-year-old has failed to deliver as anticipated.
However, despite his recent setbacks, the team management is reportedly keen on giving Rajat Patidar another opportunity, believing in his talent and potential to succeed at the international level. With India already clinching the series, the team has decided to persist with Patidar for one more Test, delaying Padikkal’s debut for the time being.
Rajat Patidar inclusion in the Test team came as a result of KL Rahul’s injury and the absence of Virat Kohli. However, with India’s next Test assignment scheduled for September against Bangladesh, Patidar’s future in the team may hinge on his performance in the upcoming Test match. Continued failures could potentially close the door on the Madhya Pradesh batsman’s Test career.
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