Rahul Tripathi targets success in first-class cricket after a dream IPL

Maharashtra’s batsman Rahul Tripathi, following a good season with the Rising Pune Supergiant wants to translate his form with the bat in the first-class cricket. The right-handed batsman scored a total of 391 runs, in the tenth edition of the Indian Premier League, while playing fluent cricket with his striking ability catching the eye of the selectors.

Tripathi scored at a brisk strike-rate of 146.44 and regularly provided the platform for the likes of Steve Smith and Ben Stokes to perform. The right-hander was in Chennai until this Sunday, where he was playing in the YSCA trophy while waiting to make an impact in the Ranji Trophy.

“The IPL has been an eye-opener. After taking a break for three weeks after the final, I have now started preparing for the Ranji Trophy. I am practising a lot more than what I used to. The aim is to maintain the same touch, add more shots to my repertoire and find more hitting zones,” the 26-yer-old told TOI.

The difference in level of fitness

Tripathi further commented on the difference in the level of fitness between the International players and the domestic players as seen in the recently concluded IPL. He is working hard to improve his fitness standard as required for a player in the work laden arena.

“I have seen the difference in the level of fitness in international and domestic players. So I’m more focused on improving my fitness and getting into good shape. There is a change in my diet plan too. Since I am a vegetarian, I need to see that my protein intake is sufficient,” added Tripathi.

Opening the innings for his state

Tripathi is looking forward to opening the innings for his state come this domestic season, where he used to bat at no.6 in the previous season.

“I would definitely like to open the innings in first-class matches. But IPL and Ranji Trophy are different. I have to improve my defence and work on my scoring areas if I want to be successful in Ranji. Since you cannot hit the ball in the air from the outset in Ranji, I have to remain patient and choose my shots.” Tripathi said when asked about opening the innings for Maharashtra.

The right-hander aims to maintain his composure to handle the tough situations that would arise when he will represent his state in the upcoming Ranji Trophy.