Rajat Patidar has been named in the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against South Africa, in the absence of the first-choice side, who are currently travelling to Australia ahead of the all-important T20 World Cup. The batsman has been brilliant in the domestic circuit, as he was instrumental in Madhya Pradesh’s maiden Ranji Trophy victory under veteran coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Patidar was initially unsold in the IPL 2022 mega auctions but was roped in by the RCB management after an injury to exciting youngster Luvnith Sisodia opened up a spot in the Royal Challengers Bangalore side. The move turned out to be a stroke of genius as Patidar impressed in almost every game he played in the group stages of the tournament. However, all those innings paled in comparison to his magnificent knock in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants, scoring a fantastic 112* to set up victory for his side.
His partner in crime in the Eliminator, Dinesh Karthik, who also played a wonderful hand, was one of the first to congratulate the Madhya Pradesh man, conveying his good wishes via Twitter.
Karthik’s congratulatory message was addressed not just to Patidar but also to Mukesh Kumar, who also featured in the side. Additionally, he also wished that Sarfaraz Khan and Baba Indrajith be given an opportunity in the longer format of the game, given their brilliant run of form.
Patidar was extremely thankful for Karthik’s good wishes, acknowledging the Tamil Nadu veteran’s role in his rapid rise to the top. The right-hander revealed that he considered him an idol and has always been a big fan of the stalwart wicketkeeper-batsman’s game.
“I saw DK bhai’s tweet. It gave a boost to my confidence. I have played with him in the IPL and also shared the dressing room with him. He’s an idol for me. He has been playing for India for years now. Him tweeting for me is a great moment.”
Patidar said.
The South Africa series is Patidar’s first assignment with the Indian senior squad. The Madhya Pradesh middle-order batsman conceded that he was very nervous, and disclosed that skipper Shikhar Dhawan personally contacted him and eased his nerves.
“This is the first time I’m meeting Shikhar Dhawan and will be playing under his leadership. I hesitated to speak to him but he only came to me and appreciated my performance.”
