Rajat Patidar is set to make his ODI debut in the IND vs SA 3rd ODI. The 30-year-old batter will not only make his ODI but also his international debut after replacing Ruturaj Gaikwad in the playing XI. Patidar has been playing 50-over cricket (List A) for the last 8 years and has nearly 2000 runs in 57 matches.
Patidar will be replacing Ruturaj as the designated opener and will open the innings alongside Sai Sudharsan. The right-handed batter will not only showcase his acumen in ODI cricket but will also look to audition for the T20 World Cup 2024 with his aggressive style of play.
Patidar had been given a chance last year, receiving his maiden India call-up. However, the cricketer from Madhya Pradesh failed to get a game in the Indian jersey. Just when the light was shining bright on him, Patidar suffered an Achilles heel injury and was ruled out of the IPL 2023 season.
Despite being out of action, Patidar was retained by his IPL franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and now he is making his international debut. Talk about a turnaround.
Rajat Patidar to make his case for the T20 World Cup 2024
Considered a seasoned T20 player, it is surprising that Patidar received an ODI call-up before getting his T20I cap. However, with just 3 T20Is left before the T20 World Cup 2024, it will be safe to assume that the Indian management has decided to give Patidar a go with limited opportunities left in the shortest format of the game.
IND vs SA 3rd ODI: Playing XIs
India: Sanju Samson, Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (c & wk), Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar
South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams, Beuran Hendricks
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