Anuj Rawat and Sujal Singh etched their names into the record books with the second-highest opening partnership in T20 cricket history, amassing a staggering 241 runs in the Delhi Premier League clash between East Delhi and Purani Dilli 6.
Rawat, who has represented Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and Singh unleashed a batting onslaught, smashing the opposition bowlers to all corners of the ground. They both notched up centuries, with Rawat scoring 121 off 66 balls and Singh contributing 108 off 57 deliveries.
The duo’s record-breaking partnership surpassed the previous mark of 236 runs set by Japan’s Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake and Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming in a T20 match against China in February 2023.
Rawat’s innings was studded with 11 sixes and six fours, while Singh’s knock featured nine sixes and seven fours. Their relentless assault left the Purani Dilli bowlers helpless as they chased a mammoth target of 242.
Despite their valiant efforts, Purani Dilli fell short by 26 runs, managing only 215/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Speaking after the match, Rawat expressed his delight at the historic partnership. “We didn’t think we would both get centuries, but as the game progressed, the shots started to flow,” he said.
Singh attributed their success to effective communication. “We made each other comfortable with the communication,” he explained. “I would take the opportunity to score boundaries, and when I was struggling, Anuj would take the initiative.”
Singh also praised Rawat’s mentorship. “I get to learn a lot from Anuj,” he said. “He has a big role to play for me because he shares his experience, which is very valuable.”
Despite his stellar performance, Singh remains focused on the future. “My plan is just to play the same kind of knock,” he said. “My job starts with batting on the wicket and ends there.”
Rawat, who is currently in the RCB setup following Dinesh Karthik’s retirement, is not looking too far ahead. “It’s only the performance that is in our hands,” he said. “Buying or retaining a player in the auction is something that is up to the franchises.”
