IND vs ENG: Why India opted for Rajat Patidar over others to replace Virat Kohli? Rohit Sharma answers

Rajat Patidar has replaced Virat Kohli in India squad for first two tests.

In the pre-match press conference ahead of the first test, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma shed light on the decision to select uncapped batter Rajat Patidar as Virat Kohli’s replacement for the first two test matches against England. Despite the availability of seasoned players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, the team opted for a fresh face to address the absence of Kohli, who cited personal reasons for his unavailability out in the initial encounters of the five-match test series.

Indian cricket team faced a challenge when Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two tests against England, creating a void in the middle-order. Surprisingly, the team management overlooked the experienced duo of Pujara and Rahane, turning to the relatively untested Rajat Patidar. The decision raised eyebrows, considering the illustrious careers of Pujara and Rahane and their pivotal roles in India’s test cricket success over the past decade. Patidar has been in a good form, as his last three performances for India A against the England Lions have been brilliant. He has scored two centuries in three innings.

Rohit Sharma clarifies Rajat Patidar’s selection

Rohit Sharma, in the pre-match press conference ahead of the series opener in Hyderabad, addressed the decision-making process behind selecting Patidar over the more seasoned options. He acknowledged the team’s contemplation of recalling Rahane and Pujara but emphasized the significance of providing opportunities to young players, particularly on home soil.

“Look, actually, we did think about it (going back to a senior player). But all these younger players, players, when are they going to get their opportunity? That’s something we thought, I thought as well. Leaving out an experienced player or not considering them is very hard. The amount of runs they’ve scored, the kind of experience they’ve had, the amount of games they have won for us, you know, it’s very hard to ignore all of that. But, you know, you sometimes have to bring certain players into your set-up as well. You have to give them favorable conditions as you don’t want to expose them on foreign doors, where they’ve not played before. So, I think it’s important that we try and get some of these youngsters an opportunity,” said Rohit in the pre-match press conference.

Rohit justified the move, expressing the difficulty in sidelining experienced players with impressive track records. However, he stressed the importance of nurturing young talent by providing favorable conditions, especially avoiding exposure on unfamiliar foreign pitches.

“By no means, the doors are closed for anyone, you know, as long as they stay fit and keep scoring runs. Anyone will be welcomed back into the setup,” the Indian skipper added.

Rohit made it clear that the exclusion of Rahane and Pujara from the current lineup doesn’t signal the end of their roles in the team. The doors remain open for their return, contingent on fitness and continued form.

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