Indian batter Rajat Patidar has had a really poor outing in the ongoing Test series against England as he has managed to score just 63 runs in a span of three matches. However, former South African captain AB de Villiers believes that the Indian team management might give Patidar a longer run and will persist with him in the upcoming fifth Test against England, which is slated to be played from March 7.
Despite the 30-year-old not having a good series, De Villiers highlighted his strength and culture of the Indian team as factors that could support Patidar's continued presence and growth within the squad.
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AB De Villiers roots for Rajat Patidar
"Rajat Patidar not having the series of a lifetime or one to remember. But the good thing about this Indian team and the culture is that you will survive in that side because of the great cricket they are playing and the results coming their way. If his attitude is catchy and if he is a likable character in the dressing room, Rohit and the selection panel will have the ability to say, Hold on, we do believe this guy has a future and we see him as a part of the team moving forward. Even though he hasn't been scoring runs, let's give him a longer run," De Villiers said in a video on his YouTube channel.
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There has to be good culture in the team: De Villiers
De Villiers talked about the importance of team culture and India's ability to foster talent, suggesting that Patidar's attitude and likability could play a significant role in getting future opportunities. De Villiers noted how different players step up for India regularly.
"It's just incredible how these guys keep on performing, and it's not always the same guys, which tells me there's a really good culture in this team, keeping in mind the youngsters coming through as well. There has got to be a good culture in the team if you get youngsters and different players to stand up every time," De Villiers added.
The fifth and final Test will be played on March 7 in Dharamshala. India have already won the series and will want to make it 4-1 to strengthen their chances of making the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025.
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