India vs England 5th Test: The Indian cricket team management faces a dilemma regarding batsman Rajat Patidar as the fifth and final Test against England approaches. The Test, scheduled to begin on March 7th in Dharamshala, presents a selection headache due to the uncertain availability of KL Rahul.
Rajat Patidar struggles and potential release:
Rajat Patidar struggles throughout the series, scoring only 63 runs in six innings, have cast doubt on his place in the squad.
Ideally, the team management would like him to return and regain form by playing in the Ranji Trophy semifinal for Madhya Pradesh, starting on March 2nd as per a source of Times of India.
KL Rahul Injury
However, the decision hinges on KL Rahul’s fitness status. If Rahul remains unavailable due to his injury, Rajat Patidar might be required to stay with the team as a backup option. Even if Devdutt Padikkal makes his Test debut in the final match, a spare batsman is needed for potential concussion substitute scenarios.
Balancing World Test Championship Points and Player Development:
The team management prioritizes maximizing World Test Championship points by fielding the strongest possible XI. However, they also recognize the importance of Patidar’s development and his potential benefit from gaining form in the Ranji Trophy.
Uncertain Decision Until Rahul’s Status Clarifies:
The selection committee is currently in a wait-and-see approach, awaiting clarity on KL Rahul’s fitness before making a final call on Rajat Patidar’s release. This uncertainty creates a selection conundrum that will likely be resolved only after receiving an update on Rahul’s availability.
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