Devdutt Padikkal Makes Test Debut as India Announces Changes for Dharamsala Test
The Indian cricket team has made two changes to its squad for the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala, with Devdutt Padikkal becoming the 314th player to represent India in the longest format of the game. Padikkal replaces Rajat Patidar, who sustained an injury in a training session on the eve of the match.
Patidar’s performance in the series had been underwhelming, but captain Rohit Sharma had expressed confidence in the batter at a press conference on Wednesday. However, Rohit revealed at the toss that Padikkal would be replacing Patidar in the playing XI.
“We would have batted first as well. We have done really well so far in this series and an opportunity to finish on a high. There should be good bounce on this pitch than the games before in this series. Good pitch to bat on and I don’t think it will deteriorate that much. Ash has been a real stalwart of Indian cricket. Such a proud moment for him, his nation and the family. We will be rooting for him to do the magic,” Rohit said on Thursday morning.
The Patidar-Padikkal swap was not the only change in the team, with Jasprit Bumrah returning to the side in place of Akash Deep.
“Bumrah is back, Akash Deep misses out. Devdutt Padikkal makes his debut as Patidar got injured last evening,” Rohit concluded.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided an update on Patidar’s status, stating that he “got hit on his left ankle during Team India’s practice session on 6th March, 2024. He pulled up sore on the morning of the game and was not available for selection for the 5th Test.”
Padikkal, a left-handed opening batter, has been in impressive form for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has scored over 1,000 runs in the last two seasons, including a century in the 2023 edition.
Bumrah, on the other hand, is a key member of India’s bowling attack. He has been rested for the first four Tests of the series but is expected to play a crucial role in the final match.
India will be looking to seal a 4-0 series victory in Dharamsala, while England will be aiming to salvage some pride after losing the first four Tests.
