Dharamsala pitch curator to consult Indian Team Management for 5th test surface

• Discussions underway between pitch curator and Indian team management for finalizing the Dharamsala Test pitch.
• Unpredictable weather conditions and recent rainfall pose challenges to pitch preparation.
• India faces squad decisions, including potential debut for Devudutt Padikkal and reinstatement of Jasprit Bumrah.

Ahead of the fifth and final Test match between India and England, set to take place in Dharamsala, discussions are underway between the pitch curator and the Indian team management, led by captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid, to finalize the nature of the playing surface. The series, which has traversed through Western, Southern, and Eastern parts of India, now moves north to the picturesque venue of HPCA Stadium in Himachal Pradesh, known for its high altitude and unpredictable early-March weather conditions.

Recent rainfall in Dharamsala has added an additional layer of complexity to pitch preparation, with fluctuating temperatures dipping below 5 degrees Celsius. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, curators have a limited window to tailor the pitch to suit both teams' strengths, aiming for a surface that balances competition between bat and ball. As discussions continue, India has made squad adjustments, with Jasprit Bumrah rejoining the team while all-rounder Washington Sundar has been released for Ranji Trophy duty. The team faces a pivotal decision regarding their No.4 batter, with Rajat Patidar's underwhelming performance prompting consideration for newcomer Devudutt Padikkal as a potential debutant.