Patidar smacked 68-ball ton [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.Com]
Rajat Patidar has sent a loud and clear retention message to his IPL franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) who are yet to decide on their retention list ahead of the deadline day. Patidar was at his absolute best in the Ranji Trophy match against Haryana and smashed a 68-ball ton on Day 4.
The star batter led Madhya Pradesh's fightback in the second innings as Haryana attack was taken to the cleaners by a supremely talented player. Haryana had taken a 132-run lead and Patidar's knock overcame the deficit as MP find themselves in the driving seat.
He slammed a typical T20 knock, by adding 159 runs in just 102 balls at a strike-rate of 155.88, and took his side out of a precarious situation. With the IPL retention deadline day on October 31, Patidar has fired a message, stating that he shouldn't be overlooked when finalising the retention list.
Will RCB retain Patidar? Here's the scenario
The 10 IPL teams have been allowed to retain a maximum of 6 players. As of now, the side has only decided to retain star player and former captain, Virat Kohli, and are contemplating on the decision to retain other players.
As per the IPL rules, a franchise can retain upto 6 players using all possible combinations (retained players + right to match options). RCB's other retention options could be Mohammed Siraj, and one of Cameron Green/Will Jacks. Even Faf du Plessis' retention is unsured.
However, RCB lack quality Indian batters barring Kohli, and there is a huge chance that they go all out to retain one of their key players, Patidar.