The anticipation surrounding Team India’s upcoming Test match series against Bangladesh is building as the Senior Men’s Selection Committee gears up for critical decisions. The selection process, which follows the conclusion of the Duleep Trophy on September 8, is expected to be announced shortly, potentially on September 9. As discussions intensify, attention is focused not only on the players who will make the cut but also on those who might be dropped from the squad, with two players—Rajat Patidar and Mukesh Kumar—currently facing uncertain futures.
Team India Readies for Test Cricket Return
After a six-month hiatus, Team India will resume its Test cricket journey, hosting Bangladesh starting September 19. The last Test series the Indian team participated in was against England, spanning from January to March, culminating in a match at Dharamsala. Notably, key players like Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant were unavailable during that series, while Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul had to withdraw midway. This scenario opened doors for several new talents, but with the return of some seasoned players, not all will be retained in the squad for the upcoming Bangladesh series.
Rajat Patidar: A Missed Opportunity
Recent reports suggest that Madhya Pradesh batsman Rajat Patidar may face exclusion from the Test squad due to the return of established stars like Virat Kohli. After making his debut during Kohli’s absence, Patidar had the opportunity to cement his place in the team but unfortunately fell short of expectations. In three matches, he managed to score only 63 runs across six innings, dimming his chances for selection. In contrast, Sarfaraz Khan, who debuted shortly after Patidar, showcased remarkable form with three half-centuries, positioning himself as a strong contender for the Bangladesh series. Given these circumstances, it appears unlikely that selectors will opt for Patidar in the upcoming lineup.
Challenges for Mukesh Kumar
Mukesh Kumar’s spot on the team is also under scrutiny. The Bengal fast bowler made his Test debut during last year’s West Indies tour and has had moments of brilliance, but his overall performance has been inconsistent. Across three Test matches, Mukesh has taken just seven wickets, with his last outing against England proving particularly challenging—he conceded 72 runs while taking only one wicket in 12 overs across both innings. With Jasprit Bumrah poised to return and the presence of Mohammad Siraj, Mukesh’s place as the third bowler is in jeopardy. The selectors’ decision could hinge on whether they decide to back Mukesh once more or opt for Akash Deep, who excelled in the Duleep Trophy with nine wickets.
As the announcement date draws near, cricket enthusiasts and analysts alike will be keenly observing these developments, especially regarding the fate of Patidar and Mukesh Kumar in the evolving landscape of Team India’s Test squad.
