Brijesh Pursuram Patel, born on November 25, 1946, in Anand, Gujarat, India, is a former Indian cricketer who gained recognition as a dashing right-hand middle-order batsman at the domestic level. Known for his prolific run-scoring ability and exceptional outfielding skills, Patel became a prominent figure in Indian cricket during the 1970s.
During his prime, Patel showcased his ability to dismantle even the strongest of bowling attacks. However, he struggled against fast and swinging deliveries, which was evident during the 1974 and 1979 England tours and the 1977-78 Australia tour. Despite these challenges, Patel excelled during the 1976 West Indies tour, where he amassed 207 runs in just four innings, with an incredible average of 207.00. His performance included an unbeaten century, scoring 115 runs at Port of Spain. One of his most memorable partnerships was with the legendary Sunil Gavaskar, as they added 204 runs for the fifth wicket.
A few other notable innings by Patel included a stroke-filled 73 not out against West Indies in Bombay during the 1974-75 series, an impressive 83 against England in the same venue two years later, and a hurricane-like 82 against New Zealand again in Bombay during the 1976-77 season. Despite his struggles on the Australian tour the following season, Patel was given another chance for the England tour in 1979, primarily due to his suitability for the upcoming World Cup.
While Patel’s international career did not live up to its initial promise, he consistently dominated at the domestic level. The Ranji Trophy, India’s premier domestic cricket tournament, was witness to Patel’s absolute mastery. For a substantial period, he held two monumental batting records in the competition – most runs (7126 at an average of 57.00) and most centuries (26). His commanding performances in the Ranji Trophy and the Duleep Trophy cemented his status as a renowned middle-order batsman.
After retiring from his playing career, Patel continued to contribute to the world of cricket. He served as a Test selector for the Indian cricket team before transitioning to administrative roles. Patel was elected as the secretary of the Karnataka State Cricket Association, further establishing his influence on the development of cricket in the region.
Brijesh Patel’s legacy extends far beyond his playing days. His remarkable skill with the bat, exceptional fielding abilities, and enduring contributions to Indian cricket administration have made him a respected figure in the cricketing fraternity. His dedication and love for the game continue to inspire aspiring cricketers in India and around the world.
