Rajat Patidar tops Duleep Trophy 2025 with 369 runs, scripting a quiet resurgence after a disappointing Test debut vs England in 2024.
After a torrid Test debut against England at home in February 2024, Rajat Patidar withdrew from the immediate spotlight only to script a quiet but emphatic resurgence in the domestic circuit. His comeback, marked by prolific runs in the Ranji Trophy, inspired captaincy in the Duleep Trophy, and a championship-winning IPL stint, has rekindled hopes for his Test recall in the upcoming home season.
The horrid Test debut against England
Patidar’s long-anticipated Test debut materialised in Visakhapatnam during the second Test against England in early 2024. The absence of Virat Kohli opened up India’s number 4 slot, and Patidar found himself thrust into a crucible of pressure and opportunity.
Despite a composed start, scoring 32 runs off 72 balls on debut, including a boundary and a solid 70-run stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Patidar’s dream turned sour as the series progressed. Over six innings, he could only muster a meager 63 runs, falling prey to England’s relentless spin attack and twice registering ducks. His inability to convert starts or anchor the fragile Indian middle order drew inevitable criticism and temporarily closed the doors for further Test opportunities.
Notably, Patidar had entered the series after two centuries for India A, led by years of domestic grind with Madhya Pradesh. Yet the unforgiving scrutiny of international cricket left some wondering whether his shot at the highest level had arrived too late, or if the pressure had denied him the free-flowing style that defines his domestic play.
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The road to redemption
Patidar channelled his disappointment into the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, delivering a batting masterclass for Madhya Pradesh. In seven matches, he accumulated an impressive 529 runs at a stellar average of 77. Highlights included a resolute 92 against Kerala, an unbeaten 132 earlier in the season, and several vital middle-order contributions that steered his team to competitive positions.
Patidar’s approach was noticeably proactive. He reduced risks, rotated strike adeptly, and showcased his trademark ability to accelerate after settling in. Over 11 innings, Patidar stitched together double-digit scores with regularity, emphasising that his Test setback was a blip rather than a reflection of his long-term ability.
Captaincy and command in Duleep Trophy 2025-26
The next chapter in Patidar’s resurgence came in the Duleep Trophy 2025-26, where he is leading the Central Zone as captain and has stamped his authority with the bat. In the quarterfinal and semifinal stages, Patidar rattled off consecutive fifties and a rapid century, entering the final against South Zone riding a streak of three fifty-plus scores. His innings of 101 off 115 balls in the final, decorated with 12 boundaries and two sixes, validated his attacking instincts and leadership temperament.
Patidar contributed 369 runs in just four innings, emerging as the tournament’s highest run-scorer and orchestrating crucial partnerships that set up commanding totals.
Read More: Top performers in Quarter-Final stage of Duleep Trophy 2025-26
The IPL triumph
Rajat Patidar’s victorious stint as IPL captain in 2025 was another verdict of his class. Taking over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Patidar guided his side to the franchise’s maiden title with tactical acumen and consistent batting contributions. His IPL campaign combined efficient starts at the top with bold strokeplay in the latter stages, and his ability to handle high-stakes matches silenced critics who questioned his temperament.
More than personal numbers, Patidar’s real impact lay in building a cohesive team spirit, nurturing young talent, and leading from the front in pressure-cooker playoff encounters.
Why does Rajat Patidar deserve another chance?
As India gears up for a challenging home Test season beginning with a series against Australia, Patidar’s domestic exploits make a compelling case for his recall. With the middle order still in flux, there is an urgent need for a player who combines technical solidity with tactical flexibility. Patidar’s ability to anchor innings, rotate strike, and attack spin makes him especially valuable against an Australian attack stacked with quality tweakers and fast bowlers.
Statistically, Patidar has accumulated over 5,000 first-class runs at an average exceeding 44, credentials that demand serious consideration. His recent form across formats, be it the Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy, or IPL, highlight his adaptability and hunger.
In the Ranji Trophy, he was among the top five run-scorers, while in the Duleep Trophy, he scaled the summit with dominant consistency. His leadership experience adds another layer; India’s Test side could benefit from the maturity and calm he brings, especially in tricky home conditions.
If Patidar does earn a recall, the Australia series will offer him the perfect stage to write a new chapter. His journey should inspire not just fans but also younger players, which shows that setbacks are temporary, but the hunger to rise is eternal.
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