Rajat Patidar smashes third fastest century in Ranji Trophy history
Rajat Patidar has also become the batsman to score the fastest century in Ranji Trophy for Madhya Pradesh. This century was Patidar’s 13th in First-Class cricket and marked a comeback for the 31-year-old.
Madhya Pradesh's powerful batter Rajat Patidar scored third fastest century in Ranji Trophy history in just 68 balls during day four of his side’s Ranji Trophy 2024-25 round three match against Haryana in Indore.
During the match between Haryana and Madhya Pradesh of Ranji Trophy Elite 2024-25, Patidar came to bat at number three for Madhya Pradesh. During his innings, he batted aggressively and scored a hundred and took 68 balls for this. This was Patidar's record century. He had scored 159 runs in 102 balls with a strike rate of 155.68. He had completed 150 runs in 97 balls. In his stormy innings, Rajat hit 13 fours and 7 sixes.
Madhya Pradesh had conceded a hefty 132-run first-innings lead after Haryana racked up 440 in response to MP’s 308. With only two sessions left to play, they needed to score rapidly to set a target, and Patidar took charge to give MP the boost they needed in the final innings push.
Fastest century from Madhya Pradesh
Rajat Patidar has also become the batsman to score the fastest century in Ranji Trophy for Madhya Pradesh. This century was Patidar’s 13th in First-Class cricket and marked a comeback for the 31-year-old, who has struggled for form at the start of the domestic season.
Following a disappointing Duleep Trophy campaign in which he managed only 146 runs in six innings, Patidar also faltered in the opening Ranji round. However, he began regaining momentum in the previous match against Punjab, scoring a solid 90.
Patidar's first-class record
Rajat Patidar has a good record in domestic matches. He has scored 4344 runs in 63 first class matches. Patidar has scored 12 centuries and 23 half-centuries. His best score in this format has been 196 runs.
Rajat Patidar has also played three Test matches for Team India. But he could not do anything special during this period. He has also played one ODI match for India.
Coming in at No. 3 on the final day of play, Patidar set the game alight with an electrifying knock that eclipsed the previous Madhya Pradesh record for the fastest Ranji Trophy century, leapfrogging Naman Ojha's 69-ball hundred against Karnataka in 2015. The all-time record remains with Rishabh Pant, who smashed a 48-ball hundred in 2016 against Jharkhand.
Is Rishabh Pant's T20I career nearly over after a horrific IPL 2025?
After a disastrous IPL campaign with 13.73 average, the entire nation has this one question to ask: Is Rishabh Pant's T20I career nearly over after a horrific IPL 2025? Read to know more.
The 2025 IPL season has delivered a brutal reality check for Rishabh Pant. After being picked up by LSG for 27 crore, he turned out to be the most expensive flop of this season.
Can a player sustain an international career after such disappointing performance? Is Rishabh Pant's T20I career nearly over after a horrific IPL 2025?
Let's dive into the cold facts.
The disappointing IPL 2025 numbers
Rishabh Pant slipping down the pitch during a match in IPL 2025. Image | Facebook
Rishabh Pant was picked up by Lucknow Super Giants as the most expensive player in IPL history for ₹27 crore, which proved to be totally not worth it. He only managed to score 151 runs in 13 matches with an average of 13.73 and a strike rate barely crossing 107.
He is the lowest scorer among all the LSG batters in IPL 2025. Apart from batting performance, he also failed as a captain. The team only won 6 matches out of 13 and lost their playoffs berth under Pant's captaincy.
Pant's questionable descision-making, poor shot selections, and a complete lack of form did not justify the big price tag ahead in the auction.
The T20I context: India's current pool and future outlook
Rishabh Pant's position is now critically questionable as India's T20 squad selection prioritizes consistency in batting, high strike rates, and adaptable wicket-keeping.
The current pool of contenders are highly competitive and has the potential to outperform Pant.
KL Rahul: His current form in IPL 2025 is magnificent and he has consistently performed well for the team. Rahul's ability to anchor and accelerate has again brought him into T20I contention.
Sanju Samson: Yet another prime contender with high experience and quality performance. He also holds the ability to blend well into the format.
Dhruv Jurel: A promising young talent who also has the ability to make impactful finish for the team.
Ishan Kishan: The pocket dynamo who started his IPL 2025 season with a phenomenal century, and gained his spot in BCCI's central contract (2025), is another strong contender.
Where Rishabh Pant fits (or doesn't fit):
Rishabh Pant playing for team India in T20Is. Image | TOI
Following the poor performance of Rishabh Pant, several known names have speculated about his mental state and his inability to deal pressure. The former Indian cricketer, Kris Srikkanth, also suggested that Pant should consider taking a break from his format.
The modern T20 format demands a lot of things that Pant is completely missing:
Insufficient strike rate
Lack of clarity in shot-making
Inability to convert build innings
Diminished reliability as wicketkeeper-batter
No longer an unique left-handed power option
Difficulty handling run-rate pressure
Pant is missing the "X-factor" that he once possessed. Therefore, unless his form significantly improves soon and makes a comeback, his T20 career is effectively over.
Every IPL season delivers its share of moments, but some stay in our minds longer. Remarkable sportsmanship, brilliant athleticism, and performances under pressure is what truly defined the season.
Get ready to dive into those bittersweet moments that IPL 2025 brought to us. From KL Rahul's "This is my ground" to Suryavanshi touching Dhoni's feet. Here are 10 best moments of IPL 2025.
1. Suryavanshi touching Dhoni's feet
Vaibhav Suryavanshi touching MS Dhoni's feet after their last match of IPL 2025. Image | Hindustan Times
A recent heartfelt moment occurred after the end of RR vs CSK's match that many will remember. The 14-year-old star, Vaibhav Suryavanshi approached MS Dhoni, and bent down to touch his feet during the post-match handshakes.
The clips of this heartwarming moment was widely shared across the internet, highlighting the impact and inspiration Dhoni continues to provide the next generation cricketers.
2. "This is my ground"- Kohli and Rahul's viral banter
KL Rahul and Virat Kohli laughing it out after the clash between RCB and DC. Image | Instagram
Beyond the scoreboard, IPL offers moments of pure fun. KL Rahul and Virat Kohli provided one such moment with their "This is my ground" banter.
It started with Rahul's playful Kantara-style gesture at Chinnaswamy Stadium after both the teams met in their first encounter in IPL 2025. Later, Kohli returned the favour in Delhi, mimicking Rahul's move after RCB won in their second encounter.
This lighthearted exchange showed the great bond between these rivals.
3. Riyan Parag's historic 6 consecutive sixes against KKR!
Riyan Parag during his six-hitting blitz against KKR in IPL 2025. Image | France 24
Riyan Parag unleashed an incredible display of power-hitting against KKR, by smashing 6 consecutive sixes across 2 overs. He left the crowd and the bowlers (Moeen Ali and Varun Chakravarthy) stunned with his brilliance.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi celebrating his maiden IPL century against GT in IPL 2025. Image | BBC
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player to debut in IPL history, announced his presence by hitting his first ball in the IPL for a flat six! It intensifies in the later stage, when Rajasthan Royals faced GT, and this young boy scored 101 runs off 38 balls.
He not only became the youngest debutant, but also the youngest centurion in IPL history, and we're sure there's more to come in the future.
5. Punjab Kings defend lowest ever IPL total (vs KKR)
Punjab Kings celebrating the dismissal of Andre Russell during their match against KKR in IPL 2025. Image | ESPNcricinfo
IPL 2025 gave us a huge surprise when Punjab Kings pulled off an unexpected victory against KKR by successfully defending 111 runs.
The match initially seemed like an easy win for KKR after the first inning, but the bowlers of PBKS, especially Yuzvendra Chahal (4/28) and Marco Jansen (3/17) completely turned things around!
PBKS bowled them out in 15.3 overs and sealed the victory. This became the lowest total ever defended in IPL.
6. Abhishek Sharma's papercut and record-breaking century
Abhishek Sharma during his papercut celebration after scoring a century against PBKS. Image | Instagram
Abhishek Sharma won hearts with his record-breaking knock of 141 runs off just 55 balls against PBKS in IPL 2025. He pulled a small note out of his pocket after reaching his century, with the message "This one is for Orange Army."
This gesture went viral and people talked about his dedication after knowing the fact that he was carrying the note for several games!
He also became the highest scoring Indian batsman in an innings in IPL history with this knock.
𝘼 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚-𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙮 𝙏𝙊𝙉 💯
A stunning maiden #TATAIPL century from Abhishek Sharma keeps #SRH on 🔝 in this chase 💪
Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah sharing words between the match between RCB vs MI. Image | InsideSport
In a highly charged match between RCB and MI, where Jasprit Bumrah returned to action for MI, making his comeback after injury layoff, an extraordinary drama took place. Virat Kohli welcomed Bumrah with a massive six on the very first ball bowled to him.
This instantly ignited the intensity of the game where we saw two legendary players going against each other.
8. MS Dhoni's vintage run-out vs LSG
MS Dhoni in action behind the stumps during a match against LSG in IPL 2025. Image | NDTV
MS Dhoni delivered a classic no-look flick run-out against Lucknow Super Giants in a match in IPL 2025. The LSG batter, Abdul Samad, was caught short by Dhoni's brilliance, where he swiftly and almost effortlessly flicked the ball to get him out.
This display of precision and speed with direct-hit was pure vintage Dhoni.
Shreyas Iyer walks down the ground with Shashank Singh after his 97* in the first innings against GT. Image | Instagram
Shreyas Iyer scored a commendable 97* off 42 balls against GT in their first match of IPL 2025. What made his knock memorable was his decision to prioritise the team over individual milestone.
Despite being just 3 runs away from a century, Iyer consciously allowed his batting partner, Shashank Singh, to continue batting and hitting boundaries.
Eventually, Iyer remained at the non-striker's end, sacrificing his hundred and being just happy for the team.
10. The Salt-David relay catch!
Phil Salt and Tim David during their magnificent relay-catch against MI in IPL 2025. Image | NDTV
A spectacular moment in IPL 2025 saw Phil Salt and Tim David execute a breathtaking relay catch against MI. Salt leaped to take the catch, flicking the ball mid-air for David before crossing the boundary line.
This catch was taken during a crucial stage at the game, which left the fans stunned by their perfect sync and teamwork.
𝘾𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 💥
Phil Salt & Tim David pulled off a game-changing blinder at the ropes! ❤️
First Hat-trick of IPL 2025: Yuzvendra Chahal took 4 wickets in a single over, including a hat-trick against CSK.
Super over in IPL after 4 years: The first and only tied match of IPL 2025 till now, between RR and DC, which was an absolute roller-coaster.
Rinku Singh's match-winning fielding: Rinku Singh executed a quick pickup and one-bounce throw in the last over against RR, which bagged KKR a crucial 1-run victory.
Yash Dayal in last overs for RCB: Yash Dayal has consistently showcased his power to restrict the run flow in high pressure matches in the last overs for RCB.
Highest individual scores by players in IPL playoffs
From Shubman Gill's match-winning 129 off 60 balls to Sehwag and Watson's heroics. Discover the highest individual scores by players in IPL playoffs history.
The intensity of IPL playoffs brings out extraordinary performances. Several players have set the bar high with their fearless batting skills and bagging those victories for the teams.
With the IPL 2025 playoffs approaching, it is the best time to examine the highest individual scores by players in the IPL playoffs.
Check out the full list of the highest individual scores by players in the IPL playoffs.
1. Shubham Gill (129 runs) | GT
Shubman Gill celebrating his century against MI in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023. Image | ESPNcricinfo
Shubham Gill shattered all the big batting records of IPL playoffs with his unbelievable knock of 129 runs off 60 balls against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2023 Qualifier 2.
His performance as an opening batsman took Gujarat Titans to a huge total of 233 runs, which they defended comfortably and booked their final berth.
This groundbreaking knock tops the chart for the highest individual scores by players in IPL playoffs.
Wriddhiman Saha playing a slog-sweep during his 115* off 55 balls in IPL 2014 Final. Image | ESPNcricinfo
An incredible season for the boy of Bengal, Wriddhiman Saha, who dominated till the very end against KKR in the IPL 2014 Final. He scored an unbeaten 115 runs from just 55 balls and helped PBKS reach a defendable total. Saha's ton was the first ton ever scored in an IPL final.
Even though Kolkata Knight Riders pulled off a brilliant victory in that match, Saha's performance won the hearts of the fans!
5. Murali Vijay (113 runs) | CSK
Murali Vijay's celebration after scoring 113 runs off 58 balls in IPL 2012 Qualifier 2. Image | Pinterest
Murali Vijay single-handedly took CSK to a humongous total in the Qualifier 2 of IPL 2012. His remarkable contribution of 113 runs from 58 balls made things easier for their team.
With this victory against Delhi Capitals, CSK headed towards the Final and Murali Vijay was rewarded player of the match.
Rajat Patidar's match winning 112* runs against LSG in IPL 2022 Eliminator. Image | Reddif
Rajat Patidar has proven to be one of the impactful figures for Royal Challengers Bengaluru ever since his debut in 2021. He left a stellar lasting impression with his knock of 112* runs from 54 balls against LSG in IPL 2022 Eliminator.
His contribution was extremely crucial for the team as their batting line-up collapsed early in the first innings. However, RCB successfully defeated LSG to move ahead in the tournament, with credit to Patidar.
A sinking tale of playoffs: Can LSG make it to the top 4 in IPL 2025?
Currently in 7th position with 10 points, LGS's playoff hopes are indeed a sinking tale. Their struggle to build momentum left the fans with one BIG question; can LSG make it to the top 4 in IPL 2025?
After a promising start, Lucknow Super Giants' 2025 IPL campaign started to sink, leaving slim chances for playoff qualification.
Find out what went wrong and everyone's answer to the ultimate question: Can LSG make it to the top 4 in IPL 2025?
LSG in IPL 2025 so far
Nicholas Pooran during his 61 runs off 38 balls against GT in IPL 2025. Image | NDTV
LSG won 5 matches out of 11 played so far, with a poor net run rate of -0.469 and 10 points. They had a decent start to the tournament with players like Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Ravi Bishnoi and Digvesh Rathi stepping out for the team.
They struggled to build momentum later on in the tournament, which led them to just 1 victory in their last 5 matches.
Net Run Rate (NRR): -0.469, which is the worst among the top seven teams
What exactly went wrong?
Rishabh Pant after his dismissal in their crushing defeat by 37 runs against PBKS. Image | Facebook
The following factors significantly disrupted LSG's gameplay, which resulted in their miserable position for the playoffs:
Rishabh Pant's poor form: Captain Rishabh Pant is having a disappointing season with the bat, which has practically crushed the team's backbone. He managed to score only 128 runs in 11 innings with a strike rate below 100.
Inconsistent top-order: The opening pair, despite having good individual performances, haven't consistently fired together.
Middle-order Reliance: Players like Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad have shown brilliance in some matches, but they weren't enough to carry the team forward after their regular collapse of top order.
Bowling Inconsistencies: LSG's bowling attack has failed with their execution in matches, and was seen struggling to contain the batters in the death overs.
Poor Fielding: They dropped catches at crucial times in the game, which cost them heavily. Additionally, the players could have saved more runs with more on-field efforts.
Playoff scenario and hopes for a miraculous comeback
LSG after their disappointing defeat against MI by 54 runs in IPL. Image | Pinterest
LSG currently has a huge burden of net run rate, which can have a damaging impact even if they win their 3 remaining matches in IPL 2025. They can reach a maximum of 16 points to end the group stage.
In IPL, ending with 16 points would promise a place in the top 4, but the scenario for LSG is different this year. Additionally, they will also need other factors to be in their favour.
Factors and mathematical possibilities
The chances are slim, but here's what they need to consider for qualification:
Last 3 hurdles: They have 3 remaining matches to play with RCB (9th May), GT (14th May), and SRH (18th May).
Wins required: LSG must win all three matches with huge margins to make their NRR better.
Reliance on otherteams: They will need to depend on other teams to lose which will be beneficial for them in case of tie-breakers of same points. The team having a better NRR will eventually qualify.
Elimination Scenario: LSG will be eliminated from IPL 2025 playoff contention if they lose a single match. They will also lose their chances of being in the top-4 if rain washes away any of their matches.
Rishabh Pant has scored just 128 runs in IPL 2025 so far. He is being criticised for his current performance and approach. Let's take a look at the performance of Rishabh Pant in IPL 2025 so far.
Fans had high expectations from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain and the most expensive player of this season, Rishabh Pant, in the IPL 2025. Pant, who was bought for Rs 27 crore, was expected to tear apart the opposition bowlers with his aggressive batting, but his performance so far has been extremely disappointing.
Let's take a look at the performance of Rishabh Pant in IPL 2025 so far.
More than half of the season has passed in IPL 2025 and Rishabh Pant's bat has remained completely silent. He has scored only 128 runs in 10 innings of 11 matches played so far, out of which 63 runs have come in a single innings. His batting average is only 12.80 and strike rate is also limited to 99.22. Which is the worst among players who played at least 10 innings.
Rishabh Pant in IPL 2025 (Previous 10 Innings)
vs PBKS: 18 runs (17 balls)
vs MI: 4 runs (2 balls)
vs DC: 0 runs (2 balls)
vs RR: 3 runs (9 balls)
vs CSK: 63 runs (49 balls)
vs GT: 21 runs (18 balls)
vs KKR: 0 runs (0 balls)
vs MI: 2 runs (6 balls)
vs PBKS: 2 runs (5 balls)
vs SRH: 15 runs (15 balls)
LSG under Rishabh Pant's captaincy
The performance of Rishabh Pant in IPL 2025 as captain has also not been up to expectations. Lucknow Super Giants have won only 5 out of 11 matches, and their net run rate is -0.469. The team is at the seventh position in the IPL 2025 points table with 10 points. The hopes of playoffs seem almost over.
LSG have lost 4 of their last 5 matches, and the one match they won was also by just 2 runs against Rajasthan Royals. In such a situation, the team's confidence seems to be continuously declining. A minimum of 16 points will be required to make it to the playoffs in IPL 2025. However, looking at the current situation, it seems that even 16 points will not be enough for the fourth position, and the net run rate (NRR) can play a decisive role.
If LSG wants to stay in the playoff race, they will have to win all three of their remaining matches, that too by a big margin, so that their net run rate can improve. Lucknow will play its last three matches against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on May 9, Gujarat Titans (GT) on May 14 and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 18.
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