Rajat Patidar, the captain of Madhya Pradesh, has kicked off the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season with an extraordinary maiden First-Class double century. Playing against Punjab in Indore on Day 3, Patidar remained unbeaten on an impressive 205 runs from 332 deliveries. His masterful innings featured 26 boundaries, anchoring Madhya Pradesh to a commanding total of 519/8 and a substantial 287-run lead.
Patidar’s innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression and astute timing, underscoring his status as a premier talent in Indian domestic cricket. This remarkable achievement marks a significant personal milestone for the batsman, who has consistently progressed through the cricketing ranks. Beyond his batting prowess, Patidar’s leadership has also drawn considerable praise. He previously led Central Zone to their first Duleep Trophy title in ten years and guided Royal Challengers Bangalore to their inaugural IPL championship, demonstrating his all-around capabilities.
Following strong performances, including a standout Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign, Patidar is garnering attention for a potential return to the Indian Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. Analysts highlight his composed demeanor coupled with aggressive batting as ideal attributes for national representation.
Thanks to Patidar’s exceptional batting, Madhya Pradesh is in a dominant position in their opening fixture. This performance not only sets a strong precedent for MP’s Ranji Trophy campaign but also showcases the burgeoning talent within India’s domestic circuit. Continued success in this vein could see Patidar earn a national call-up, solidifying his reputation as a rising star.