13 IPL franchises and the highest individual score by their wicket-keepers in IPL history
In cricket, the wicket-keeper plays a critical role in various kinds of dismissals such as caught behind, stumping and run outs. However, in the T20 format desires more from a wicket-keeper than just keeping the wickets as every player in the playing XI has a role to play.
Many franchises in the Indian Premier League have sought for a batsman who can keep wickets instead of a wicket-keeper who can bat, while sitting in the auction room. Here’s a look at the best batting performances by a wicket-keeper for each IPL franchise.
#13 Kochi Tuskers Kerala - Parthiv Patel - 37* (31) vs Delhi Daredevils in 2011
The Gujarat born wicket-keeper batsman, Parthiv Patel holds the record of the highest individual score by a KTK wicket-keeper. Playing at the Feroz Shah Kotla against the Delhi Daredevils, the home side set KTK a target of 141 after Venugopal Rao’s 40 helped them post 140/6 in their 20 overs.
KTK were off to a flyer with openers Michael Klinger and Brendon McCullum putting up 61 for the first wicket inside 5.1 overs. Parthiv Patel came out to bat after Klinger’s dismissal and anchored the chase. He played a patient knock of 37 off 31 balls which comprised 5 fours to guide his team home. In the only season he played for the Kochi franchise, Parthiv scored 202 runs in 14 matches at an average of 20.20. Patel has kept wickets for many franchises in his 11-year long IPL career.