NEW DELHI: Prolific Madhya Pradesh batter
Rajat Patidar
has been named as the
replacement
for India's batting maestro
Virat Kohli
ahead of the first Test against England on Thursday.
The
Board of Control for Cricket in India
(BCCI) officially announced the inclusion of Patidar in the squad for the first two
Tests against England
, as Kohli had opted to make himself unavailable for the initial matches due to personal reasons.
The 30-year-old Patidar, fresh from his impressive performances for India A against England Lions, where he scored 111 and 151, now finds himself in contention for a spot in the playing XI for the second Test.
While he made his international debut in an ODI against South Africa, Patidar is yet to make his Test debut, and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await his potential inclusion in the playing lineup.
India, led by
Rohit Sharma
, has opted for a three-pronged spin attack in the opening Test in Hyderabad, featuring left-arm spinner Axar Patel.
Scorecard: IND vs ENG 1st Test
With the team focusing on spin-friendly conditions, Patidar's addition adds depth to the batting order, and his recent form has certainly bolstered his case for a significant role in the Test series against England.
In another roster update, the BCCI mentioned that fast bowler
Avesh Khan
has been released from the squad to represent his Ranji Trophy team, Madhya Pradesh, in their upcoming fixture.
The squad reshuffle showcases India's depth and flexibility as they aim to secure an early advantage in the five-match Test series against England.
(With inputs from PTI)
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