Parthiv Patel, former Indian cricketer, expressed his opinion that India’s Test match wicketkeeper should be someone who is regularly keeping wickets in domestic tournaments like Ranji Trophy or first-class cricket. Patel’s statement emphasizes the importance of consistent performance and match practice at the domestic level for wicketkeepers aspiring to represent the national team in Test cricket.
With Ishan Kishan ruled out of the series due to fatigue, KL Rahul and KS Bharat are the 2 wicket keeping options for India. It is very different to keep wickets in tests especially on seaming pitches in South Africa. Rahul has kept wickets in the white ball format but test cricket holds a different challenge altogether.
Rahul Dravid backs Rahul
Head coach Rahul Dravid has expressed confidence in KL Rahul’s ability to keep wickets in India’s upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa. Rahul, who has previously kept wickets for India in 35 ODIs and 8 T20Is, is set to take on the role in Test cricket for the first time.
“KL has done really well in the past when he kept wickets in limited-overs cricket for us. He’s got the experience and the skills to do well in Test cricket too,” Dravid said, expressing his confidence in Rahul’s capabilities.
Despite Rahul’s limited experience in keeping wickets in the longest format of the game, Dravid believes that his proficiency in the limited-overs formats should translate well into Test cricket. Dravid highlighted Rahul’s past performances as a wicketkeeper-batsman and expressed optimism about his adaptability to the new challenge.
“While Rahul is the primary option for wicketkeeping duties, we also have KS Bharat as an alternative wicketkeeping option, providing depth in the squad for the crucial role behind the stumps,” Dravid added, emphasizing the team’s preparedness for various scenarios.
Dravid’s confidence in Rahul’s wicketkeeping abilities reflects the team’s strategy to field a well-rounded side capable of handling the challenges posed by South Africa in their home conditions. As India prepares for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa starting on December 26, all eyes will be on Rahul as he takes on this new responsibility in Test cricket.
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