Birthday special: Rahul Tripathi – Talented batter in search of an opportunity

The Indian Premier League has over the years given the world of cricket many talented stars. While there have been some players who have been given the perfect launch pad through the IPL for their international careers to take off, there are also a few cricketers who, despite possessing a similar amount of talent and ability, have for some reason not been presented with the spotlight. One such cricketer is Rahul Tripathi.

Whenever Tripathi has walked out to bat in whatever capacity, he has given glimpses of being a special talent. From his cover drives to his backfoot play, from an astute stroke play to some powerful big-hitting capabilities, the Maharashtra cricketer appears to have it all covered. However, the recently turned 30-year-old is yet to be given an opportunity to play at the highest level for India.

Building up to the T20 World Cup in 2022, the Indian team management has been trying out several players to form their best squad. There have been players who have not played too many domestic cricket games being also given the chance to showcase their skills at the highest level.

Tripathi, though, is yet to make his debut for the country. The right-handed batter has most recently played for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. He has primarily played as a top-order batter contributing to several matches won by the franchisee. He is as capable of playing the new ball bowlers as he is against the spinners.

However, he usually remains under the radar being surrounded by cricketers with a grander presence and hype around them. The batter can also be seen as an introverted personality in his demeanour which could also have played a part in him not being noticed enough.

Tripathi though comes off as a complete team player. He does not seem to shy away from playing any role that his team needs him to. He has often displayed having a great cricketing mind and is electric on the field too. However, with India already spoilt for choices at the top of the order, it has made it difficult for the batter to break into the team.

His best bet appears to be as a finisher and if Tripathi can somehow manage to convince the team management and selectors of his explosive batting skills, he may be able to get that much-desired chance at some point, to play for India.