MOHALI: On Friday, a day before the third Test, Parthiv Patel, after finishing his training session, was hurriedly brought into the press conference room. The host broadcaster introduced the playing XI with set graphics and pictures that were standardised right across the board. They didn't have an updated headshot of Parthiv.
Over the next 20-30 minutes, he was walking up and down a narrow stretch inside a huge hall with cameras capturing his every movement.
A few journalists, who were waiting for the press conferences to begin, made harsh jokes. He'll bat for a total of 10 minutes and for that he has been modelling for 20 minutes, one of them quipped, before laughing. Others guffawed. If only they had known.
There were a few standout performers for India, but nobody enhanced their reputation in the manner that Parthiv (67 not out) did. It was only appropriate that he gave the finishing strokes in an ultimately dominating eight-wicket win for India.
A good length delivery from Gareth Batty was lofted exquisitely over extra cover. Now, there is a protocol in place wherein if an injured player becomes fit, he will get back his place in the XI, provided he proves his fitness (irrespective of how well his replacement has performed).
Given Wriddhiman Saha did not feature in the XI for Bengal against Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy match that began on November 29, there is definitely a case for Parthiv to be retained for the fourth Test in Mumbai. Even otherwise, Virat Kohli gave food to the idea of other doors opening.
There are all kinds of possibilities (if Parthiv could be a back-up opener to KL Rahul). That's actually a good headache to have. The way he approached both innings was amazing. Full credit to him to out go there and counter-attack their seamers. As a keeper too. we'll see what happens in the next few days, and take a call accordingly.