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Rajat Patidar Returns: How His SMAT Comeback Boosts Madhya Pradesh

Rajat Patidar is finally making his comeback after recovering from that persistent left-knee injury that kept him out for four weeks. He's been cleared by the BCCI's medical team and will rejoin the Madhya Pradesh squad in Kolkata this Friday. This is huge news for MP since Patidar was absolutely on fire before his injury, especially in the previous SMAT season. His explosive batting and leadership could really turn things around for the team in the ongoing tournament.

Key Points: Rajat Patidar Rejoins MP Squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

  • Cleared to play after completing 10-day rehabilitation program at BCCI Centre of Excellence
  • Available for selection from SMAT's third round starting Sunday
  • Was second-highest run-scorer in previous SMAT with 428 runs
  • Led RCB to maiden IPL title before becoming MP's all-format captain
2 min read

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Rajat Patidar set to rejoin MP squad

Rajat Patidar returns from knee injury for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, providing major boost to Madhya Pradesh's title hopes after impressive pre-injury form.

"Patidar's return will be a significant boost, given his impressive form before the injury - ESPNcricinfo"

New Delhi, November 28

Rajat Patidar has recovered from his left-knee injury and has been cleared to play by the BCCI's Centre of Excellence. He is set to rejoin the Madhya Pradesh squad for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in Kolkata on Friday.

Patidar will be available for selection from the third round of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, starting Sunday. Patidar's return will be a significant boost, given his impressive form before the injury, as per ESPNcricinfo.

Madhya Pradesh skipper Patidar has been out of competitive cricket for four weeks due to a persistent left-knee injury. He first experienced knee pain during MP's opening Ranji Trophy match against Punjab on October 15 and missed the last two weeks of the tournament. Patidar had played for India A in the first unofficial Test against South Africa A on October 30, but his injury forced him to take a break.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Patidar completed a 10-day rehabilitation programme and received an RTP (return to play) certificate from the CoE's medical team. He has resumed batting.

Patidar started the Ranji season with a double century against Punjab, also scoring two centuries and two half-centuries during the course of a title-winning run as Central Zone captain in the season-opening Duleep Trophy.

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025-26 will be his first white-ball games since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, where he led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden title. Since then, Patidar has been elevated to all-format captaincy for his state side, replacing Shubham Sharma.

Patidar was instrumental in Madhya Pradesh's runner-up finish in the previous SMAT season. He was the second-highest run-getter, scoring 428 runs in 9 innings at a strike rate of 186.08. Patidar's explosive batting was highlighted by 27 sixes, the most in the tournament, showcasing his aggressive style.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally some good news! Was worried about his injury after that amazing IPL performance. BCCI's Centre of Excellence has done good work with his rehabilitation. Wishing him a successful comeback! 🇮🇳
A
Arjun K
Patidar's journey from domestic cricket to leading RCB to IPL title is inspiring. But honestly, I hope they don't rush him back. Knee injuries can be tricky and we need him fit for the longer season ahead.
S
Shreya B
His strike rate of 186.08 last season was mind-blowing! With his current form and now captaincy responsibilities, he's becoming a complete package. MP cricket is in good hands! 💪
M
Michael C
As someone who follows domestic cricket closely, Patidar's consistency across formats is remarkable. Double century in Ranji, centuries in Duleep Trophy, and now back for SMAT - proper all-format player material for Team India soon!
K
Kavya N
So happy to hear this! Was missing his aggressive batting in the initial matches. Hope he takes it easy initially and builds his rhythm. MP needs their captain back in full flow! 🏏

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