Parthiv Patel’s dream season capped off by MI triumph
Mumbai Indians’ unsung hero Parthiv Patel described as dream season the IPL 2017 after finishing as topscorer for the champions. Parthiv is one of the few players that have been part of the IPL setup since its inaugural season. He produced a career-best performance after aggregating 395 runs.
“I am happy I have finished as the team’s highest run-getter but the most important thing is to win trophies and being a part of this set-up,” Parthiv said on Monday, a day after helping Mumbai Indians win a dramatic final against Rising Pune Supergiant.
“Every time we’ve had a good opening partnership we’ve (MI) gone on to get the runs. A good start especially in the 20-over format helps the bigger players like Rohit and Pollard to play freely.”
Mumbai won their record third IPL title and Parthiv believes it was the unity and humility that helped them win.
“Winning the IPL to top it off was very special. It’s a long tournament and you have to make sure the team stays together for that period. Rohit and the coaching staff did a fantastic job on that front through the season. They made sure our feet were on the ground,” said the wicketkeeper. Parthiv also picked his Test comeback and the Ranji Trophy triumph with Gujarat as the other defining moments this season. He led Gujarat to victory over Mumbai in the Ranji final in January with a match-winning 143 in the second innings.
“Winning the Ranji Trophy is every player’s dream. It was sweeter winning it for Gujarat.”
Parthiv’s call up in the Test series against England late last year marked his comeback after eight long years. “I’m happy to have made the comeback. It has always been a dream for me to play in a Test before I finish off,” said the 32-year-old.