RR vs RCB: Harshal Patel enters record books

Harshal Patel continued his red-hot form on Wednesday against Rajasthan Royals as he further extended his lead at the top of the purple cap race, picking three wickets for 34 runs from his four-over spell. With that fine show of death bowling, he scripted a record for most wickets taken by an uncapped player in an IPL season. The record was previously held by his compatriot, Yuzvendra Chahal, who had accounted for 23 wickets in IPL 2015. In addition to that, he also broke the record for most wickets taken by an RCB bowler in a season. 

His bowling strike rate of 9.31 is the highest among bowlers with 10 or more wickets in an IPL season. That, in itself, sums up his impact since rejoining forces with Royal Challengers Bangalore. Interestingly, Patel’s current wicket tally of 26 is also the joint-second most by an Indian pacer in a season. With three matches remaining, he is edging closer to another major milestone. He only needs seven wickets to surpass Dwayne Bravo's IPL record of 32 wickets, which is the most by a bowler in an IPL season.

Harshal Patel has shown his full weaponry this season -- bowling the difficult overs, hitting hard lengths, and mixing up the pace with his variations. There hasn't been a single time when he hasn't bowled his heart out. Not a lot was talked about him when Royal Challengers Bangalore traded him from Delhi Capitals. Fitter, wiser and more competent - He returned to a familiar setting, where it had all started for him. Over the last few years, the pacer has got limited opportunities. Fast forward to September 2021, the race for the purple cap is being led by a man about whom little was said prior to the season. This is the essence of the Indian Premier League. This is why we are all gripped by the love for this tournament. He made an impactful return. His outstanding performance in the ongoing season has gotten a lot of attention. Hours of hard work have finally paid off. 

The cricketing fraternity may have very well witnessed the coming of age of the 30-year-old. We just hope he goes from strength to strength from here.