Ashwin backs Rajat Patidar for India comeback, calls him ‘right up there’

Lead paragraph

Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier off‑spinner and a mainstay of the Test side, publicly backed Rajat Patidar for a return to the national team, describing the 26‑year‑old as “right up there” with the country’s best batting talent. The endorsement came in a recent interview with The Indian Express, where Ashwin praised Patidar’s recent domestic and IPL performances and urged selectors to give him a chance in the upcoming series. The statement has sparked debate among pundits, fans, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about whether Patidar’s form merits a spot in a line‑up that already boasts a deep batting pool.

What happened

In the interview, Ashwin highlighted Patidar’s consistency in the Ranji Trophy and his impact in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Rajasthan Royals. He noted that Patidar’s technique, temperament, and ability to rotate the strike make him a valuable asset, especially in the middle order. Ashwin’s comments were not a formal selection request but a clear signal that a senior player believes the younger batsman is ready for the international stage. The timing of the remark coincides with India’s preparation for a home Test series against England, where the team management is reportedly reviewing batting options. While Ashwin did not name a specific format, his emphasis on Patidar’s adaptability suggests he sees the player fitting into both limited‑overs and longer formats.

Why it matters

Ashwin’s backing carries weight because he is a respected voice in Indian cricket, with over 100 Test wickets and a reputation for reading the game’s nuances. When a senior player publicly supports a teammate, it can influence selection committees that often balance form, experience, and team balance. Patidar’s recent IPL season saw him score crucial runs under pressure, reinforcing the narrative that he can handle high‑stakes environments. A recall would also signal to other domestic performers that strong IPL showings are being rewarded, potentially reshaping how players prioritize the two formats. Moreover, the endorsement adds pressure on the selectors to justify any continued exclusion of a player who, according to Ashwin, is “right up there” with the nation’s best.

The bigger picture

India’s batting depth has expanded dramatically over the past decade, with a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent competing for limited spots. The BCCI has increasingly leaned on IPL performances as a barometer for international readiness, a trend that aligns with Patidar’s case. Players like Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw, and Ruturaj Gaikwad have all leveraged strong IPL outings into Test and ODI debuts. At the same time, senior players such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have occasionally faced form slumps, prompting selectors to keep a close eye on domestic form. Ashwin’s comment reflects this broader shift: the line between domestic and international readiness is becoming more fluid, with senior voices acting as informal talent scouts.

What’s next

The next few weeks will reveal whether Ashwin’s endorsement translates into a selection decision. India’s squad for the England series is expected to be announced within ten days, and any inclusion of Patidar would confirm that senior player opinions are influencing the process. If Patidar is not named, the conversation may move to the limited‑overs calendar, where India has a packed schedule of bilateral series and a World Cup qualification campaign. Observers will also watch how Patidar performs in the remaining IPL matches; a string of big scores could reinforce Ashwin’s assessment and keep the player in the selection conversation for the remainder of the year.

Key takeaways

• Ravichandran Ashwin publicly endorsed Rajat Patidar, calling him “right up there” with India’s top batsmen.
• Ashwin’s praise centers on Patidar’s consistency in the Ranji Trophy and his impact in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals.
• The endorsement adds pressure on selectors ahead of the upcoming England Test series and may affect future limited‑overs selections.
• Patidar’s case exemplifies the growing importance of IPL performance as a pathway to the national team.
• The next squad announcement will indicate whether senior player opinions are shaping selection policy.

---