Rajat Patidar has announced a break from One Day International duties and has withdrawn from the India A squad ahead of the ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup, the board confirmed on 8 November 2026. The decision follows fitness concerns that have limited his participation in recent matches. Patidar’s absence opens a spot in the India A lineup as the team prepares for its Group B fixtures.
To fill the vacancy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India named Ayush Badoni as Patidar’s replacement in the India A squad. Badoni, a right‑hand batsman who has featured in domestic tournaments, will join the side as it gears up for matches against the United Arab Emirates, Nepal and Pakistan A. His inclusion aims to maintain balance in the batting order while the team finalises its strategy.
Rinku Singh has been appointed vice‑captain of the India A side, supporting captain Tilak Varma as the squad enters a competitive Group B schedule. The leadership duo will oversee preparations against three opponents, each presenting distinct challenges. Singh’s experience in the domestic circuit is expected to complement Varma’s tactical acumen, providing the team with a blend of youthful vigor and seasoned guidance.
Patidar’s decision to pause his ODI involvement comes at a time when the senior national team is finalising its lineup for upcoming series. While his hiatus is limited to the India A programme, it underscores the importance of managing player workload ahead of international commitments. The board’s medical staff will continue monitoring his condition, with the expectation that he could return to the senior squad once fully recovered.
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup features emerging talent from across the continent, with Group B comprising the United Arab Emirates, Nepal and Pakistan A. Each side will play a round‑robin format, and the top two teams will advance to the knockout stage. India A enters the competition as one of the favourites, given its depth of players and recent performances in domestic circuits, despite the recent squad alteration.
The board confirmed Patidar’s withdrawal and Badoni’s inclusion through an official release, emphasizing that player health remains a priority. No further details on the nature of Patidar’s injury were disclosed, but the statement reassured fans that the decision was taken after thorough medical assessment. The BCCI also highlighted the leadership roles of Varma and Singh as integral to the team’s upcoming campaign.
India A will convene for a training camp later this week before departing for the tournament venue. The squad is expected to play its opening match against the United Arab Emirates within the next ten days. Further updates on Patidar’s recovery and potential reintegration into the senior ODI setup are likely to be issued as the board reviews his fitness progress.
The adjustments to the India A roster illustrate the dynamic nature of squad management ahead of a key developmental tournament. With Ayush Badoni stepping in and the leadership core of Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh in place, the team aims to maintain its competitive edge. Observers will watch how the side performs in Group B and whether Patidar’s hiatus influences his future role in the national setup.
