Rajat Patidar has given the Indian selectors something to think about ahead of the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain has scored two consecutive half-centuries while playing for India A against Australia A in Puducherry.

Patidar scored 53 runs in the first unofficial ODI on Tuesday before following it up with a knock of 67 in the second match on Friday, October 9. His performances have come at the right time, with India set to play a five-match ODI series against New Zealand next month.

The BCCI selectors are expected to announce the squad in the coming days, and Patidar’s recent form could put him in contention for a place in the Indian team.

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Rajat Patidar Makes Strong Case For India ODI Selection

Patidar has looked in good touch in both matches against Australia A. He scored 53 off 51 balls while batting at No. 5 in the opening game. The right-handed batter hit five fours and a six during his innings.

He moved up the order to No. 4 for the second match and scored 67 off 81 deliveries. His knock included three fours and a six.

The two half-centuries have strengthened his chances of earning another opportunity in India’s ODI setup. Patidar made his international debut in the format against South Africa in December 2023, but he will need to impress the selectors to secure a place in the squad for the New Zealand series.

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Patidar's recent performances could make him an option as a reserve middle-order batter, with Ruturaj Gaikwad also in contention for the same role

Patidar captained the RCB to back-to-back IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. His latest performances for India A have added to his case for a return to the national side.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Struggles In Australia A Series

While Patidar has made the most of his opportunities, Gaikwad has struggled to score runs in the two matches against Australia A.

The right-handed batter managed just 15 runs in the first game while batting at No. 4. He then scored 12 runs in the second match after opening the innings.

Gaikwad will be hoping to make a stronger impression in the remaining game as he looks to stay in contention for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Devdutt Padikkal Fails To Make An Impact

Devdutt Padikkal has also found it difficult to get going in the series. The Karnataka batter, who has an impressive record in List A cricket, has failed to make a mark in either of the first two matches.

Padikkal was dismissed for a six-ball duck while batting at No. 3 in the opening game. He then managed just one run off 10 balls after being promoted to the opening position in the second match on Friday.

His second innings ended when Tanveer Sangha took the catch off Spencer Johnson’s bowling on the fourth ball of the fifth over during India’s run chase.

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