3 reasons why Rajat Patidar should replace Virat Kohli for the first two Tests against England

Former India captain Virat Kohli is set to miss the first two test matches against England starting on January 25. This came as a big blow for India as Kohli is back in form and has a good batting record against the English bowlers. The reasons why he opted out aren’t clear yet. However, he will be back in the team for the last three test matches. 

Moreover, now the selectors are about to finalize the team by announcing Kohli’s replacement. There are a lot of players who are strong contenders in the race. However, Rajat Patidar is leading the race. He has played some outstanding innings for his team Madhya Pradesh and also for India A. 

Look at the three reasons why Rajat Patidar should be included in the test team in place of Kohli.

3. Good domestic season

Rajat Patidar had a good domestic season in 2023. He started the season with a solid 121 runs which helped Madhya Pradesh recover against Vidharbha. He and Aditya Srivastava made a 202-ball partnership which saved the team from losing the match. Apart from this, he also had a good Indian Premier League (IPL) season for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2022.

2. Century against England Lions

One of the main reasons why Patidar should be replacing Kohli is his current form. He is in incredible form considering the centuries he just hit against the England Lions. His score of 151 runs off 158 balls came in at a crucial time when the team needed him the most. The innings included 19 boundaries and five sixes. This innings shows how responsible he is as a player. If given a chance, he might turn out to be a good replacement for Kohli. 

1. Can turnout as a special package against spin

Rajat Patidar can take on the spin bowlers well. He has a good amount of experience playing against spin. In IPL, Patidar strikes the spinners well and has a good record. In 2022, he had a strike rate of 172.9 against spinners and also hit a boundary in 4.3 balls. Since India’s pitches will be spin-friendly, England will play a few of their spinners during the test series. Thus, he will come in handy in tricky situations.