Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) star Urvil Patel ran riot with his explosive batting to script history at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on May 11. During a high-stakes encounter against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the wicketkeeper-batter equalled the record for the fastest half-century in IPL history, reaching the milestone in a staggering 13 balls. His explosive innings of 65 runs from just 23 deliveries featured two boundaries and eight massive sixes, providing the momentum needed for CSK to successfully chase down a formidable target of 204 and climb to the fifth spot on the points table.
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'I don't have any doubt in your skill: MS Dhoni to Urvil Patel
This performance marked Urvil's maiden IPL half-century, breaking a cycle of promising but brief cameos. Despite providing 'flying starts' in previous matches, he had struggled to convert those aggressive openings into significant scores. The breakthrough came after a tactical discussion with the legendary Dhoni in the dressing room. Urvil credited the former captain's advice for his shift in mindset, noting that Dhoni encouraged him to maintain a clear head and focus simply on hitting the right ball to the right part of the field.
“When I spoke to Mahi bhai when I got out early in a couple of matches, we were sitting together in the dressing room and I asked him 'I'm getting out early, what should I do to convert the good start? He said just one thing, 'I don't have any doubt in your skill, whatever doubt is there it is in your mind so just stay clear and try to hit the right ball at the right place,'" Urvil was quoted as saying by TOI.
Urvil Patel opens up on special note after comeback fifty
After reaching his whirlwind half-century, Urvil shared a poignant moment by pulling a handwritten note from his pocket. The message simply read, “Dad, this is for you,” serving as a public tribute to the man who has been his primary pillar of strength throughout his career. His father’s role was especially vital during the lean periods of Urvil's journey. While the young batter faced earlier failures and the pressures of professional cricket, his father remained a constant support system, providing the encouragement necessary to help him persevere and eventually achieve this record-breaking milestone.
"I was waiting for my first 50 in the IPL. And I was emotional because I scored 50 of just 13 balls. I was very emotional, especially for my father. I dedicated the 50 to him," Urvil concluded.