Pavan Deshpande, a former Karnataka cricketer who now works as a Kannada TV commentator, has had a ringside view of Rajat Patidar's journey from a quiet rookie to a leader. In a recent interview, Deshpande recalled the Madhya Pradesh batter's slow but sensational growth in the IPL.
Early Days
Deshpande first noticed Patidar during his early days in domestic cricket. 'He was a shy, unassuming guy who just wanted to bat,' Deshpande said. 'But even then, you could see the hunger in his eyes.'
The Turning Point
The turning point came when Patidar was given the responsibility of leading a side in a domestic tournament. 'That changed him,' Deshpande noted. 'He started talking more, taking charge, and his batting became more authoritative.'
Patidar's IPL journey began quietly, but he soon made an impact with his consistent performances. His ability to anchor an innings while also accelerating when needed made him a valuable asset.
Leadership Qualities
According to Deshpande, Patidar's leadership qualities were evident even when he wasn't the captain. 'He would guide younger players, discuss strategies with the bowlers, and stay calm under pressure,' he said. 'That's why the franchise decided to hand him the captaincy.'
Under Patidar's leadership, the team has shown remarkable resilience. 'He leads by example,' Deshpande added. 'When things are tough, he steps up with the bat or makes bold decisions on the field.'
The Growth Curve
Deshpande emphasized that Patidar's growth was not overnight. 'It was a slow process. He worked on his fitness, his technique, and his mental game. Every season, you could see him improve.'
Now, Patidar is one of the most respected figures in the IPL. 'He has earned that respect through hard work and humility,' Deshpande said. 'From a quiet rookie to a leader, his journey is an inspiration.'
The article was originally published on 01 June 2026, 19:09 IST, and is part of the sports news coverage on cricket and IPL.
