A Historic Knock in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025
Urvil Patel, the wicketkeeper-batter from Gujarat, made headlines with a sensational 28-ball century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025, held in Indore. His explosive innings of 113 runs off just 35 balls included seven fours and 12 towering sixes. This knock came mere days after he went unsold at the IPL 2025 Auction, showcasing that cricketing talent extends beyond league selections.
Second-Fastest T20 Century in History
Urvil’s SMAT century is now the fastest T20 hundred by an Indian and the second-fastest globally. The all-time record is held by Estonia’s Sahil Chauhan, who smashed a century off 27 balls against Cyprus in 2024. This remarkable achievement adds to Urvil’s growing legacy in Indian cricket.
A Legacy of Fast-Scoring Mastery
This isn’t Urvil’s first brush with history. In the 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored an unbeaten 100 off 41 balls for Gujarat, marking the second-fastest List A century by an Indian. His consistency in domestic cricket highlights his ability to thrive under pressure and deliver match-winning performances.
Staying Motivated Despite IPL Snub
Reflecting on his IPL snub, Urvil told the Times of India, “I did expect a deal, to be very honest. But I am happy that I am playing, performing, and taking my game forward.” Instead of dwelling on disappointment, he chose to focus on his game and let his performances speak for themselves.
Guidance from Suryakumar Yadav
During his stint with Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2024, Urvil had a memorable interaction with Suryakumar Yadav, one of India’s most fearless batters. Surya’s advice to play “bindaas” (fearlessly) and focus on observing bowlers deeply resonated with Urvil. “I always recall his words whenever I go to the middle,” Urvil shared, highlighting the impact of Surya’s mentorship.
Gujarat’s Dominant Victory Over Tripura
Urvil’s blistering knock helped Gujarat secure an emphatic eight-wicket win over Tripura. His innings not only boosted Gujarat’s chances in the tournament but also cemented his status as a player to watch out for in Indian cricket.
Looking Ahead
Urvil Patel’s journey exemplifies perseverance and self-belief. His ability to rise above setbacks and deliver extraordinary performances makes him a standout figure in India’s cricketing landscape. Whether or not the IPL franchises come calling next season, Urvil has proven his worth on the big stage.(cricket betting sites)