As the Indian cricket team geared up for the final ODI against New Zealand in Indore, cricket fans were left wondering why local boy Rajat Patidar was left out of the playing XI. Patidar, who hails from Indore, had a strong domestic season and many were expecting him to get a chance to play in front of his home crowd.
During the post-match press conference, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was asked about Patidar’s absence from the playing XI. Sharma explained that the team’s selection is based on current form and the best combination for the match.
He went on to add, “If there’s a place, we would’ve surely played him, but if Patidar has to play in Indore, by that logic Ishan Kishan will also tell us to play him in Ranchi (laughs).”
Sharma’s comment highlights the tough competition for spots in the Indian team and the pressure that players face to perform consistently.
Patidar will have to continue to work hard and make the most of every opportunity that comes his way, in order to break into the Indian team and make his dream of playing in front of his home crowd a reality.