IPL 10: RPS opener Rahul Tripathi seeks inspiration from Army men

Rising Pune Supergiant have arguably unearthed the next big thing in Indian cricket. Maharashtra batsman Rahul Tripathi has been the find of the season for them at the top of the batting order. Batting alongside the heavyweights like MS Dhoni, Steve Smith and Ajinkya Rahane has not intimidated him one bit but motivated him rather. He has been a constant run-getter for his team this season and looks like a bright prospect for the Indian team.

Recently, some of the players of Rising Pune Supergiant visited the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Center (PRC) in Pune. It is the place where the soldiers of the Indian armed forces who suffered spinal injuries in the line of duty reside. They are taught to lead an independent life despite being physically harmed by destiny. Players like Jaydev Unadkat, Ashok Dinda, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar visited the place for the first time.

However, for Rahul Tripathi, the place was not a new one. He is the son of Col. AK Tripathi and hence has been visiting the place with his father and mother Saroj frequently. For his parents, the moment was of great pride to see their son being invited at the center as the chief guest for an event.

His father remarked that they have been visiting the place for years now. They often donate fruits at the center and it is perhaps because of that goodwill which is seeing their son succeed so much. He hopes to see Rahul Tripathi excel even more.

“My wife would often fast on Thursdays and end it by offering fruits. We would donate those fruits at PRC. Rahul followed what we did and he too would contribute in the kitty and make larger donations of fruits. Since we have been doing that, Rahul has been rewarded with good success in his cricket. With God’s grace we will continue doing more donations,” quoted Tripathi’s father.

Talking about his experience, Rahul noted that he often gets positive vibes whenever he visits the place. He takes inspiration from the soldiers. “I take away a lot of positive energy every time I come here (at PRC). Sacrifices by them (soldiers) is inspiring,” Rahul said.