As India gears up for the inaugural Test against England in Hyderabad on January 25, a pivotal decision looms regarding the occupant of the wicketkeeping slot in the playing eleven.
The Three-Way Tussle
For the initial two Tests against England, India has opted for a trio of wicketkeeper-batters – KL Rahul, KS Bharat, and the uncapped Dhruv Jurel. The decision to thrust Rahul into the designated wicketkeeper role during India’s tour of South Africa was prompted by conditions less favourable to spinners.
Conditions Favor a Specialist
With India back home, the team is contemplating the use of a specialist wicketkeeper adept at handling turning pitches and uneven bounce. This consideration places Bharat and Dhruv at the forefront of the selection dilemma.
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Ajay Ratra’s Insight
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Ajay Ratra expressed surprise at the selection of three keepers and believes Rahul will primarily be considered as a batter in this series. He emphasizes that conditions in India favour a proper wicketkeeper who can also bat effectively.
Bharat’s Strong Case
Bharat, who assumed wicketkeeping duties in Tests in the absence of Rishabh Pant due to injury, boasts extensive experience as a wicketkeeper in Indian conditions. His unbeaten 116 against the England Lions showcased his batting prowess and strengthened his case for the wicketkeeper’s role in the Hyderabad Test.
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Importance of Batting Returns
Ratra stresses the importance of the wicketkeeper’s batting returns, especially with Virat Kohli absent from the first two Tests. While acknowledging Rishabh Pant’s exceptional batting, Ratra sees Bharat as a decent batter and believes the team management will expect him to contribute with both bat and gloves.
Dhruv Jurel’s Promise
Despite being uncapped in Tests, Dhruv Jurel has impressed with performances, including a century for India ‘A’ against England Lions. Ratra, having coached Dhruv in the domestic season, considers him a promising player with a strong work ethic. He sees Dhruv’s inclusion in the Test team as an opportunity for him to learn and gain experience.
Ratra’s Preferred Pick
Ratra, with insights into Rahul, Bharat, and Dhruv’s work as wicketkeeper-batters, believes KS Bharat will be his preferred pick for the role. He highlights the challenges a wicketkeeper faces in Indian conditions, citing sharp turns and uneven bounce as factors that make the role challenging.
Beyond Batting and Catching
In modern cricket, a wicketkeeper’s responsibilities extend beyond catching and batting. They play a crucial role in giving tips to bowlers, suggesting field placements to the captain, and contributing to Decision Review System (DRS) referrals.
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DRS – A Wicketkeeper’s Realm
Ratra emphasizes the wicketkeeper’s significant role in DRS referrals, as they have a better angle to judge whether a batter is out. He sees the wicketkeeper as having a more decisive role in this aspect compared to bowlers.
Finding the Right Balance
As India contemplates its wicketkeeping choice for the first Test against England, the decision will revolve around finding the right balance between wicketkeeping skills and batting contributions in challenging conditions.
