Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has opined that he won’t surprised if Rajat Patidar plays the fifth Test match against England despite low returns in the last three Test matches. According to latest reports, Patidar is expected to be backed by the team’s think tank.
The Madhya Pradesh batter has scored 63 runs in three Test matches at an average of 10.5 and has failed to impress. Furthermore, Patidar has failed to even get off the mark twice in the six innings he has played.
On the other hand, Padikkal has scored 2227 runs in 31 first-class matches at an average of 44.54. The left-hander has been in terrific form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, scoring 556 runs in four matches at an impressive average of 92.66 and thus he was rewarded by the selectors for his consistent performances.
Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel, “Reports suggest Rajat Patidar will play and I can probably understand. The team is saying that they have played him three matches, so he can play one more and that this could be his final opportunity.”
“If they don’t play him and play Devdutt, and if he has a bad match, they won’t be able to judge him as well, and might also feel they didn’t give full chances to Rajat. I won’t be surprised if Rajat Patidar plays. However, if he is dropped, still I won’t be surprised,” the former India opener added.
With important ICC Test Championship points on offer, the last Test match will not be a dead rubber contest despite India taking an impregnable lead of 3-1 in the series.
“There are no dead rubbers now because the percentage points matter. Every match is 20% points in a five-match series. If you win four matches, it’s 80% points, and if you win three matches, it’s 60% points. A series win doesn’t guarantee you anything.”
The renowned commentator wants India to play at their best and win all 12 points from the fifth Test match.
“You cannot get 100% points now. So from that standpoint, 80% points is the second-best option available. So please play and get it. It’s very important, although there are huge chances of rain in Dharamsala and they are saying that the temperature will be one degree Celsius,” Chopra stated.
The fifth and final Test match will be played at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala from March 7.
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