With the series win sealed, Rohit Sharma’s men were expected to experiment in the fifth Test. But reports suggest Rajat Patidar will retain his place instead of debutant Devdutt Padikkal.
The source-based information states the team wants to give struggling Patidar, whose highest score is 32, one more chance believing his talent will shine through.
The 30-year-old was included after Virat Kohli’s break, making his debut in Visakhapatnam. But returns of 9, 5, 0, 17, and 0 haven’t inspired confidence.
Padikkal’s T20I experience raised hopes of seeing him in Dharamsala. However, with series pressure off, management will stick to their ‘backing local talent’ philosophy.
Meanwhile, Rahul has flown to London for a specialist’s opinion on his recurring quad injury. Bumrah returns after being rested as India hunt their eighth successive home Test win.
It remains to be seen if the faith shown in Patidar pays off or if selectors make the tough call to hand Padikkal his maiden Test cap. Another chance beckons for the MP man on Thursday.
