It is quite amazing and somewhat ironical that sometimes how opportunity knocks the door.
Parthiv Patel when he would have least expected will get a chance to wear Indian Test cap once again, thanks to an injury to Wriddhiman Saha, who strained his left thigh during the second test against England in Visakhapatnam.
Patel made his debut against England in 2002 at the age of 17 years and 153 days (becoming test cricket youngest wicketkeeper). At that time, time India's current test captain, Virat Kohli was playing u-14 cricket and ODI captain, MS Dhoni, debuted 3 years later and retired respectfully in 2016 (in tests) - presents a succinct picture of Parthiv Patel's lopsided career.
Parthiv though had remained on the fringe of the Indian team in all those years, most recently been called-up as back-up for MS Dhoni during Asia Cup. In 14 years Parthiv has 20 test caps and last played for India in test in 2008.
Wicketkeeping which was one of reason, that he was never the first choice keeper (also emergence of MS Dhoni) has improved now and 415 runs so far in Ranji Trophy at an average of 59.28 in Ranji Trophy further strengthened his case.
This might well be the last of those opportunities; Patel needs to grab it with both hands. India's first choice keeper Saha had two underwhelming tests (dropped catches, missed stumping and a mere of 49 runs across 4 innings). A few runs with the bat and sharp keeping ...................... and you never know. Maybe a late surge in a highly lopsided career.
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