Happy with the way I handled the challenges: Parthiv Patel

Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has expressed his happiness the way he has handled all the challenges in his career so far. He led Gujarat to their first ever Ranji Trophy title last year with a match-winning century. The wicketkeeper-batsman also earned a national call-up during India’s home season albeit to replace the injured Wriddhiman Saha. Unfortunately, he was dropped again after the regular wicketkeeper was fit.

Parthiv is now gearing up for the upcoming season of Ranji Trophy as Gujarat will look to defend their title. He will once again lead the side filled with immense talent. BCCI has changed the format of the tournament this year which will provide enough break to the bowlers and also all the groups have been equally divided. This will give all the teams a chance to press their claims for the knockouts.

I am still young

The 32-year-old Patel however, feels he is still young and is happy with what he’s achieved in his career. “I am still young, you know. I am only 32 and if you see, most batsmen mature after the age of 26. I think I am in good shape as a professional,” he told Ahmedabad Mirror. While his journey has been overlapped with the rise of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the Gujarat player is not at all miffed. He gave credit to his competitor Saha and said that he deserves the place in the side.

“Look, I honestly have no complaints. He (Saha) had done really well to deserve the place. It’s been a great 15 years for me (in senior cricket). It’s been a long journey full of challenges. I am happy with the way I handled the challenges. I think it is something that keeps me going,” the Gujarat Ranji Trophy skipper said reflecting his career.

Though, he was confident of returning to the national side and said he is still motivated to play. “I am still motivated and I am working hard (to make India return). Obviously, age is on my side and I have the belief. “The biggest thing is the fact that I am enjoying what I am doing. This is what I want to do. And this is what I am doing,” the wicketkeeper-batsman concluded and returned to the practice session.