Urvil Patel Shines in Record-Breaking IPL Debut for CSK

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Urvil Patel made history on Wednesday, achieving the highest strike rate by an Indian batter in a debut Indian Premier League (IPL) innings, provided it lasted 10 balls or more. Patel set this record during CSK's clash with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens.

In the match, Patel scored 31 runs off just 11 deliveries, including a four and four sixes, reflecting a remarkable strike rate of 281.82. His fireworks against spinners like Moeen Ali and Ravichandran Ashwin underscored his capabilities in tackling spin bowling. However, former England player Luke Wright still holds the top overall debut strike rate of 340.00, achieved while playing for Pune Warriors India in 2013.

Despite a challenging start, CSK, largely thanks to MS Dhoni's calm finish, clinched victory, while KKR, despite a solid total, faced a blow to their playoff ambitions. Vaibhav Arora emerged as KKR's standout bowler, but CSK's tactical aggression proved decisive in their triumphant chase.

(With inputs from agencies.)