For the first two Test matches of the current five-match series against England, Rajat Patidar is a member of the Indian team. The right-handed hitter recently discussed how superstar batsman Virat Kohli serves as an inspiration to him.
Patidar added that he frequently watches the seasoned player bat in the nets. Patidar and Kohli share a dressing room at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Rajat discussed how we may learn from Kohli’s batting in a video that the BCCI posted on Thursday, February 1 on its official social media accounts:
“I watch him bat from behind the nets every time; his footwork and body movement are very impressive. It’s entertaining to watch him bat. I wish to include such abilities. Even if it’s difficult, I’m tenacious about it.”
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Virat Kohli is an inspiration to Rajat Patidar
In addition, Patidar mentioned that he pays close attention to how Team India captain Rohit Sharma manipulates the field that the opponent sets up, saying:
“Since playing domestic cricket, I have batted with an aggressive approach. It all comes down to preparation. Now, it’s become second nature. I see how Rohit bhai handles the field locations and I analyze the opponent bowlers’ patterns and field placements. I strive to incorporate these insights into my work.”
It is important to note that Rajat Patidar was added to the Indian team for the opening two Test matches against England after Virat Kohli decided to skip the matches due to personal reasons. The Madhya Pradesh boy was left out of the starting lineup for the first game of the series in Hyderabad.
With experienced players Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul ruled out of the match owing to their ailments, Patidar may make his Test debut in the second match.
Rajat Patidar on his contacts with Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma: “Has increased my confidence”
Speaking, Rajat Patidar mentioned his recent communication with Team India head coach Rahul Dravid. He went on to say that speaking with Rohit Sharma throughout the current series has given him more confidence. He stated:
“In the home circuit, I have played with several Indian team members. Have been communicating for the last two series with Rahul Sir. I hadn’t had much conversation with Rohit bhai. However, I got to talk to him about batting during this tour. He talked about his time spent in the nets. All of this has given me more self-assurance.”
An injury to his Achilles heel kept Rajat Patidar out of action for a period, and that prevented him from playing in the 2023 Indian Premier League.