When RCB Approached Harshal Patel For IPL Trials, Haryana Pacer Recalls The Moment
Published - 16 Feb 2022, 11:52 AM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:04 AM
Indian bowler Harshal Patel opened up on his journey to making his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2012.
Harshal, who was born in Gujarat, made his List A debut for the state team in the 2008-09 Vijay Hazare Trophy. He bagged 23 wickets at an impressive average of 11, which earned him a spot in India’s U19 World Cup squad in 2010.
Harshal Patel moved to Haryana in 2011
As there was stiff competition in the Gujarat team for bowlers at that period, Harshal decided to move to Haryana in 2011-12. He picked consecutive eight-wicket hauls against Karnataka (quarter-final) and Rajasthan (semi-final) in the Ranji Trophy 2011-12 season.
After his brilliance with the bowl with the Haryana state team, Harshal made his debut for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2012 against Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals) in Bengaluru.
RCB approached me and asked if I was open to coming for their trials: Harshal Patel
The 31-year-old recalled the moment when RCB approached him for IPL trails and how he pleased Anil Kumble, who was part of the franchise’s coaching staff then.
“RCB approached me and asked if I was open to coming for their trials and of course, I had shown my interest. We went on to play the semi-final of the Ranji Trophy.
“I took eight-wicket hauls back-to-back and that is when Avinash Vaidya said Anil Kumble wants to speak to me, I was shocked. It took me a while to get back to my senses. They then offered me a contract and I was on board,” Patel said on RCB Podcast.
It took eight years for the Haryana skipper to get recognition after switching between RCB and Delhi Capitals.
Harshal had a tremendous IPL 2021 season as he ended as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament with 32 wickets, equalising CSK all-rounder Dwayne Bravo’s record in IPL 2013.
It was inevitable that RCB would’ve gone after him in the auction and they left no stone unturned to bring him back to the squad.
In the IPL 2022 auction, RCB managed to seal the deal for Harshal at INR 10.75 crores after being in contention with Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings during his bid.
Also Read: IPL 2022: I Believed DC Will Keep Me As A Backup Option – Harshal Patel About Being Traded To RCB
