RP Singh

Rudra Pratap Singh, better known as ‘RP’ can be referred to as an energetic cricket player of India national cricket team. He bats with the right hand. He is, however, included in the team as a left-handed medium pace fast bowler. In the year 2008, Rudra was signed by Hyderabad Deccan chargers for IPL. At present, he has been bought by the Mumbai Indians at the IPL 5 auction 2012.

RP entered the world of international cricket in an ODI against Zimbabwe on 4th of September, 2005 at Harare. India won this match by 4 wickets. RP Singh had picked up 2 wickets in this match; with a maiden over. He thus started his ODI career on a winning note. RP Singh got his first man of the match in the third game itself he played. He played a vital role in getting the Sri Lankan team out cheaply at 196 by taking 4 wickets.

There was no looking back after that. RP continued to set records in international cricket. This is evident from the fact that in 47 matches played so far, RP has pocketed 60 wickets. He did not remain behind in Test-Matches either. In his first test match played against Pakistan at Faisalabad from 21st of January, 2006, RP could take 4 wickets in the first innings; and a wicket in the second innings. The match was drawn. He was adjudged as the man of the match in this debut match.

Later, in 2006 RP was selected over Sreesanth for the ICC Champions Trophy for his better consistency and economy rate. However, he could not deliver well continuously and was dropped from the team. RP Singh then decided to join the Leicestershire team but was called upon by the BCCI to cover up for the poor World Cup Campaign. He then played in Test matches and picked 5 for 59 at the famous Lord’s Ground against England. For ICC World Twenty20 tournament RP was selected and proved his selection correct by becoming the second highest wicket taker.

RP Singh was selected by the Deccan Chargers for the past three seasons of IPL. He gave wonderful performances for the team in the second season and became the highest wicket taker in the tournament. Currently he is the leading wicket taker inclusive of all the IPL seasons played.Kochi Tuskers Kerala have bought RP Singh to play for their team in this IPL.

Career Highlights

In 14 Test matches he played so far, RP Singh has managed to pick up 40 wickets. He scored 116 runs at batting average of 7.25, with his top score being 30. He bowled 2,534 balls, with bowling average of 42.05. RP played in 58 ODI matches, scoring 104 runs, with a batting average of 10.40. He bowled 2,565 balls and took 69 wickets with bowling average of 33.95. Other than that, Rudra played in 70 first class match and in 127 List A matches.