Gujarat wicketkeeper-batter Urvil Patel has credited his time with Chennai Super Kings for transforming his confidence and approach to the game. The 27-year-old, known for his explosive batting, began his Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign in spectacular fashion with a 37-ball 119 while captaining Gujarat against Services in Hyderabad on 26 November. His century came off just 31 deliveries, featuring 12 fours and 10 sixes, as Gujarat chased down 183 in only 12.3 overs. It was his third T20 hundred and followed a 28-ball century last year against Tripura, the joint-fastest by an Indian in T20 cricket.

Reflecting on his growth, Urvil said his stint with CSK during the 2025 IPL helped him understand the true meaning of success.

“When you’re in CSK or in Dhoni sir’s team, the definition of success and failure changes for you,” Urvil, a lifelong admirer of MS Dhoni, told ESPNcricinfo.

“Just going out there and scoring runs isn’t success. If I’m putting in my best efforts honestly, that is also success. I learned to believe in myself while at CSK. It sounds simple, but now I truly trust every shot I play more than ever before.”

Urvil’s IPL journey began in 2023 when Gujarat Titans picked him up for ₹20 lakh at the auction. Although he didn’t get a game, the move signalled growing recognition of his potential. His real breakthrough came in 2025, when CSK signed him mid-season as an injury replacement for Vansh Bedi for ₹30 lakh.

He made an immediate impact on debut against Kolkata Knight Riders, smashing 31 off just 11 balls, a cameo that grabbed instant attention. Across the 2025 season, he played three matches and scored 68 runs, including a top score of 37, at a staggering strike rate of over 212.

Urvil said his power-hitting has been a long-term process built on discipline and structured training.

“Playing aggressive cricket may not be that difficult, but finding consistency in aggression is a little tricky,” he said. “I know that if I keep working hard like this, I’ll be able to play even better cricket in the future.”

CSK backed him further by retaining him ahead of the new season despite trading in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals. Urvil has maintained his strong form in domestic cricket as well, scoring 346 runs in five Ranji Trophy matches, including a century, before his recent T20 blitz.