Patidar eyes a uncommon hat-trick of titles

Rajat Patidar has quietly developed a knack for lifting trophies as captain. Having led Central Zone to the Duleep Trophy triumph earlier this month, after guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to its maiden Indian Premier League title in June, the Indore middle-order batter now stands on the cusp of finishing a uncommon hat-trick — with the Rest of India within the Irani Cup.

“For me, what occurred prior to now is historical past,” Patidar stated on the eve of the sport towards Ranji champion Vidarbha on the VCA Stadium in Jamtha. “It’s vital to remain within the current and provides my finest. That’s what I deal with.”

Patidar, one of many senior-most gamers within the Rest of India outfit, was clear concerning the significance of the competition. “The significance of red-ball cricket ought to all the time stay the primary precedence,” he careworn. “The Irani Trophy and Duleep Trophy give gamers a possibility to characterize India. If you carry out right here, you will get into the Test staff. That’s why these tournaments are so vital. I consider the following technology too ought to worth red-ball cricket extremely.”

Vidarbha, with a powerful pedigree in red-ball cricket, will take a look at that perception. “It’s going to be a difficult match,” Patidar admitted. “Vidarbha have been a superb staff and I’ve performed with a few of them within the Duleep Trophy. I do know the standard they carry. It received’t be straightforward, however that’s what makes it thrilling.”

On the potential for Vidarbha having fun with house benefit, he was pragmatic. “I don’t have a look at it as a bonus or drawback. Our gamers have performed throughout the nation, on all types of pitches. That received’t be a significant factor.”

With the Rest of India squad boasting skilled names corresponding to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Ishan Kishan and Akash Deep, Patidar will hope his golden run as captain continues.