I’m a wicket-keeper batsman, I’ll keep wickets and bat normally: Parthiv Patel

The first phase of IPL 2014 took place in the UAE due the Indian General Elections and the 35-year-old was the highest run-getter for RCB with 118 runs. During an interview with Hindustan Times, Parthiv Patel said, “We’ve played here in 2014 but six years is a long time. The world is different, nothing is the same.”

The Gujarat-born cricketer likes the idea of mentoring younger players and considers it the best thing a senior player can do.

“My role? I’m a wicket-keeper batsman, I’ll keep wickets and bat normally. Leading the side comes naturally, there are a lot of young players (in the RCB squad), who are quite comfortable chatting with me. I try and help them out, make sure they are in good space, that’s something you have to do as a senior player, help out the junior guys,” said Parthiv Patel.

Parthiv was full of praise for the new Director of Cricket Operations at RCB, Mike Hesson. The wicket-keeper also said that the experience and positive vibes the former Kiwi coach brings into the mix are something that really adds value.

“I think there’s a lot of calmness around the group and a lot of positive vibes with him (Mike Hesson around). The season’s new, everyone is looking forward to it. Mike has been a successful coach all over the world. So far whatever practice sessions we’ve had, he has added great value. He gives importance to each player of the squad. Hopefully, we can replicate this vibe and practice into performance (when the IPL starts).”

“RCB fans have always been loyal, they’ve been a great support for us throughout all these years. Like every year, we’ll be going into the tournament with the hope of winning it. As one of the senior players, I can assure you that we are going to play our heart out in every game and try and win whenever we step on the field,” 

IPL 2020 will be different given the current situation with matches will be played behind closed doors. Nevertheless, the cash-rich league will definitely put a smile on people’s faces while watching at home on Televisions and OTT platforms.  

“It’s obviously going to be different. It’s not the same playing in Chinnaswamy, playing at home makes a whole lot of difference. There is always a huge crowd, there is a lot of buzz among people. This time it will be without the crowd, we’ll be playing in different conditions. Hopefully, by playing cricket we can bring joy to the world and to the Indian people.”

[With Hindustan Times inputs]